Biomechanical Principles for Analysis of Movement (Part 1)

Question 1

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative analysis?

Answer 1

Qualitative; through opinion (coach speaking to an athlete)(subjective).
Quantitative; using tools or getting numbers (eg. stopwatch)(objective).

Question 2

What is force and how can you calculate it?

Answer 2

Force is defined as a push or a pull. Forces can affect objects in two ways:

• Change the shape of the object.
• Move the object.
• All forces produce or alter movement.

Force (N) = Mass x Acceleration

Forces influencing sporting performance:

• Friction
• Air and water resistance (Drag force)
• Gravitational force
• Weight (Weight = Mass x Gravity)

Question 3

What is inertia?

Answer 3

The tendency for a body to resist a change in its state of motion, whether that state is at rest or moving with a constant velocity.