Advanced Biomechanics

This unit aims to develop advanced skills, techniques and concepts in biomechanics. Students will learn how to use a variety of biomechanics measurement instruments across different movement tasks, representative of health and performance practitioners in industry. Biomechanics concepts will be taught through a focus on gait, fundamental movement tasks, muscle mechanics and impacts. Advanced data processing and analysis techniques will be performed on signals derived from accelerometers, electromyography, dynamometry, foot pressure, three-dimensional kinematics and kinetics. Students will synthesize a range of derived information, collected from a variety of conditions, to create a deep understanding of the biomechanics of movement and its control.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Critically review the procedures of different technical and analytical skills used to quantify human movement;
2. Interpret biomechanical data accurately and synthesise information in the context of the movement task and biomechanics theory communicate the outcomes effectively;
3. Exhibit the analytical and technical skills necessary to perform a biomechanical analysis of human movement tasks (with an emphasis on gait); and,
4. Quantify biomechanical principles as they relate to health, exercise and sport from both performance-enhancement and injury- prevention perspectives.