Biomechanics

A body continues to be at rest or at constant velocity unless acted on by an external force

Rate of change of momentum is proportional to the size of the force in the direction of the force

For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction

Linear - move in a straight or curved line

            all parts move in the same distance, direction and speed

            e.g. Luge

Angular - moves in a circle or part of a circle about an axis of rotation

              e.g. gymnastics High Bar

General - combination of linear and angular motion

              e.g. a cyclist - upper body - linear

                                   legs - angular

Definition - push or pull force that alters the state of motion of a body

Functions -

• Acclerate
• Decelerate
• Change shape
• Change direction
• Cause a resting body to move

Factors -

• where applied - accelerate/decelerate/change direction
• size of force - Newtons 2nd law
• direction of application 
  • direct force = linear
  • eccentric force = angular

Stability - How difficult it is to disturb a body from a balanced position

Centre of Mass - Point at which the body is balanced in all directions

Line of Gravity - a line extending from the COM down vertically to the ground

Base of Support - total area in contact with the ground