Use of Technology

• Use of Technology

  • allows the analysis of movement & enhancement of performance
  • big business in sport
• Types of Technology

  • limb kinematics
  • force plates
  • wind tunnels
• Limb Kinematics

  • study of movement in relation to time & space
  • multiple cameras record an athlete performing a skill
  • limb & joint efficiency can be evaluated (bone geometry, displacement)

  + highly accurate, immediate data, can focus on specific limbs, can focus on different phases of skill

  _ expensive equipment, training to use this is essential, specialised equipment is used, accuracy dependent on correct placement of markers
• Force Plates

  • used to measure ground reaction forces
  • used to assess human motion & balance
  • data can be used to assess size & direction of forces acting on athlete
  • metal plate with force transducers that display electrical output proportional to force applied

  + highly accurate, immediate data, easily interpreted, can be displayed in all planes of movement

  _ expensive equipment, limited in sports in can help, may require adapted movement by performer to accommodate plate
• Wind Tunnels

  • objects & techniques can be tested for aerodynamic efficiency
  • forces produced by air on objects can be measured
  • flow of air around object is also studied (coloured air/smoke used)
  • improves streamlining & effects lift & drag

  
  

  + allows control of environmental variables, precise measurements, time efficient

  
  

  _ expensive, limited in sports it can help, requires specialists to carry out testing, specialised facilities & equipment