A jump or a throw is more than a single motion. Each action is the culmination of dozens of little steps that work together to achieve a common goal. Athletes can learn about their movements and make the changes they need to increase performance and reduce injury risk by using the biomechanics of sport and exercise.
Understanding About Biomechanics In Sports
Athletes, medical professionals, coaches, and performance specialists can benefit from sports biomechanics since it uses observation and analysis to provide vital information about how the body moves during specific tasks. The study and research of movement, or how someone accomplishes a task, such as running, jumping, throwing, or hitting, is known as biomechanics.
This analysis might be simple and take place in a physical therapy clinic under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. It can be more extensive and take place in a laboratory with modern technologies. During this examination, the athlete’s entire picture is examined and compared to healthy or efficient movement patterns. When an athlete is tired, for example, their technique may suffer. 3D cameras and force plates can be utilised in a lab setting to see how the athlete’s energy level changes motion.
Athletes can modify how they run, land, jump, throw and perform other motions related to their sport with the correct input based on biomechanics study.
What Role Does Biomechanics In Injury Prevention?
Many sports injuries are linked to biomechanical performance. Consider the following scenario:
An ACL tear can occur if you land in an awkward position.
Throwing with poor form might lead to shoulder injury due to overuse.
Back injuries might happen if you lift them wrongly.
A biomechanics analysis can assist athletes in identifying potential problems before they become injured. Athletes can then begin to make deliberate alterations to their movement patterns, lowering their chance of injury. The more an athlete repeats proper movements, the more their body will move in that manner instinctively, even when they are tired or distracted. It’s akin to understanding how to walk down the stairs in the dark; even if you can’t see, your body can predict how your legs will fall and keep you safe.
It is not always natural for children to use the proper technique; many children learn to move in ways that are comfortable for them when they are younger but may cause injuries as they get older. Various sports injuries can be prevented with the help of physical therapy methods.
The Benefits Of Biomechanics
In general, knowing and utilising biomechanics is the foundation for solid technique in all sports. We can relieve stress and pressure on the bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments by analysing how the human body naturally desires to move. This leads to better sports performance, fewer injuries, and a general sense of well-being. Biomechanical analysis can benefit athletes of all ages and ability levels, whether for pain relief or to improve top-level performance.
Increased speed of movement (running, swimming, etc.)
More strength (jumping, hitting, lifting, etc.)
Energy saving is achieved through reducing movement costs.
Assists in the elimination of muscular imbalances.
Reduces joint and ligament wear and tear.
Form and technique specific to the sport have improved.
In a word, proper biomechanics allows you to improve your speed and strength while reducing injuries.
Injuries Caused By Improper Biomechanics:
Sports – Technique – Injury
- Cricket – A game of mixed bowling action – Pars inter_ articularis stress fractures
- Swimming – Shoulder external rotation is reduced – Rotator cuff tendinopathy
- Tennis – With the backhand, there is a lot of wrist action – Tennis Elbow
- Running – Anterior pelvic tilt – Hamstring Injuries, Sprain
- Ballet – Poor turnout – Hip and Knee Pain
Concluding Thoughts!!!
Biomechanics may be utilised to improve performance and reduce injury risk in practically any sport. Young athletes can use biomechanical data to improve their game with the help of a professional physical therapist and supporting training.