Sport Biomechanics

Sport biomechanics staff have a wide reaching research focus based on understanding and improving sport performance and reducing injury. The research undertaken is viewed as internationally excellent and world leading contributing to the REF 2014. 

Specific examples include research which combines coaches' conceptual understanding of technique and performance with fine-grained biomechanical analyses of skills. The work ranges from developing coach friendly graphical user interfaces through to complex inter-segmental coupling and inverse dynamic analyses. The aim is to understand the musculoskeletal contributions to performance and to bridge the gap between theory and practice by providing scientifically grounded but coach friendly feedback (examples include sprint running, gymnastics performance, and strength and conditioning).

Another research focus is the human performers interaction with the environment (e.g. Landings in gymnastics, 3G Turf interaction, and clinical screening). Examining timings, coordination and force production aims to increase knowledge of the limits of sports performance and the risk factors of sport-related injury. These findings have been beneficial in informing coaching and clinical practices and in developing effective injury prevention programmes. 

Research Areas Include:

• Biomechanical assessment of elite athletes
• Application of novel technologies to sport
• Motor control
• The biomechanics of skill development and learning
• Asymmetry and technique analysis
• Athlete surface interaction
• Computer simulation modelling
• Footwear
• Strength and conditioning
• Biofeedback
• Training theory
• Injury screening with elite sports teams
• Coaching biomechanics interface
• Sports medicine and biomechanics

Research Staff