27174 Analysis of Human Motion

Subject level: Undergraduate

Handbook description

This subject expands upon a variety of mechanical concepts integral to the study of human motion. Quantitative problems are developed further and a major research project involving videography is conducted. Linear and angular kinetics are applied to sporting techniques and other human movements. The use of technical equipment for data collection and analysis is a major component of the subject.

Subject objectives/outcomes

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. describe the scientific approach to the study of human motion
2. identify the fundamental biomechanical principles related to physical performance
3. understand the limitations imposed by physical laws on human motion
4. demonstrate skills in the use and application of video motion analysis technique
5. be proficient in the use of a variety of instrumentation techniques specific to human movement.

Contribution to graduate profile

This is a core subject for human movement students and provides the opportunity for students to measure the physical attributes of human motion. This includes the theoretical analysis of human motion as well as the use of bioinstrumentation during performance. These skills are integral to the problem solving nature of human movement science and the quest for optimal performance.

Teaching and learning strategies

Lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions and field work will be used to provide a variety of learning experiences. The field work component requires students to film, digitise and analyse one of their peers performing a particular skill. Content for this subject will be supported by UTSOnline.

Content

• Biomechanics overview, basic human movements, environmental factors
• Sports biomechanics, skill analysis, equipment design, free body diagrams
• Calculations and problems involving rotatory motion
• Cinematography
• Biomechanics of skeletal muscle
• Bioinstrumentation
• Ergonomics

Assessment

Assessment item 1: Videography Project (Group)

Assessment item 2: Major Assignment (Group/Individual)

Assessment item 3: Final Exam (Individual)

Required text(s)

McGinnis, P (2005), Biomechanics of Sport and Exercise, (2nd edn), Human Kinetics, Champaign, IL.

or

Grimshaw, P, Lees, A, Fowler, N and Burden, A (2006), Sport and Exercise Biomechanics, Taylor and Francis, New York.

Recommended text(s)

Faculty of Business, Guide to Writing Assignments, Faculty of Business, University of Technology, Sydney

Indicative references

Carr, G (2004), Sport Mechanics for Coaches, Human Kinetics, Champaign. Il.

Griffiths, I, (2006), Principles of Biomechanics & Motion Analysis, Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins.

Grimshaw, P, Lees, A, Fowler, N and Burden, A (2006), Sport and Exercise Biomechanics, Taylor & Francis, New York.

Hay, JG (1993), The Biomechanics of Sports Techniques (4th edn), Prentice-Hall, New Jersey.

Hughes, M and Franks, I (2007), The Essentials of Performance Analysis : An Introduction, Routledge, New York.

Journals

International Journal of Sport Biomechanics

Journal of Applied Biomechanics

Journal of Biomechanics

Journal of Science & Medicine In Sport

Journal of Sport Sciences

Journal of Human Movement Studies

Sports Biomechanics

Sports Medicine

International Journal of Sports Medicine

American Journal of Sports Medicine

British Journal of Sports Medicine

Journal of Sports Medicine & Physical Fitness

Journal of Sports Science & Medicine

Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology

Research Quarterly For Exercise & Sport Science