High Tech and Biomechanical Analysis: The New Frontier in Sports

May 24, 2024

In sports, especially at a high level, the difference between victory and defeat can be measured in milliseconds.
For this reason, athletes and professionals are always seeking that competitive edge that can make the difference.
A significant scientific approach is biomechanical analysis.

What is Biomechanical Analysis?

Biomechanical analysis is the study of human body movement during physical activity.

By combining elements of physics, engineering, and biology, it is possible to examine how muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments work together to produce movement, analyzing the forces acting on them.

The goal is to understand the mechanics of the body to optimize technique, improve performance, and reduce the risk of injuries.

Supporting Tools

To gather precise information, biomechanical analysis relies on a variety of technological tools, including:

• Motion Capture Systems · These involve high-speed cameras and reflective markers placed on the athlete’s body to track movements in three dimensions.
• Force Platforms · These quantify the forces generated by the foot’s contact with the ground, crucial for studying the dynamics of running and jumping.
• Electromyography · This records the electrical activity of muscles during movement, providing essential information on muscle activation.
• Analysis Software · These tools allow for the examination of collected data and the detailed visualization of movements.

Benefits of Biomechanical Analysis

The advantages and applications of biomechanical analysis are numerous, always aimed at improving sports technique.

By analyzing movements in detail, it is possible to identify and correct technical errors.

For example, a swimmer can refine their stroke, reducing resistance and increasing speed.

Moreover, the collected data enables the design of training programs tailored to each athlete’s specificities, enhancing their effectiveness.

Finally, understanding how the body moves allows the identification of risk factors and the implementation of preventive strategies.

Correcting excessive foot pronation, for instance, can decrease the likelihood of knee injuries.

Injury Prevention

Sports injuries often result from repetitive movements or incorrect techniques that overload the body.

Biomechanical analysis can identify movement patterns that may lead to injuries.

For example, a muscle imbalance detected through electromyography can be corrected before it causes problems.

During recovery, biomechanical analysis monitors progress and prevents the recurrence of the issue, ensuring the adoption of a safe movement technique.

The Running Example

The example of running is one of the most suitable to illustrate the practical impact of biomechanical analysis.

Running is a natural activity, yet many runners suffer injuries due to incorrect running techniques.

Using motion capture systems and force platforms, it is possible to detect errors such as incorrect posture or excessive load on the anterior thigh muscles.

By addressing these aspects, runners can improve their energy efficiency and reduce the risk of conditions such as tibial stress syndrome or knee pain.

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