January 18, 2014
Article Review 1
Summary
This article explained the great importance biomechanics can have in the world of sports. The article described three main points in which biomechanics plays a large role: improvement in physical ability of athlete, contribution to better technique, and enables athletes to interact with the environment more effectively. The article also briefly mentioned that biomechanics can be effective in the prevention of injuries, which I find to be extremely important.
The article elaborates on each of these main areas of improvement, and provides several mechanisms in which biomechanics is used. For example, plyometric training can be an effective tool to improve the athletes muscle power output through the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) or how a simple change of technique helped break records in the Olympic high jump.
Analysis & Opinion
I completely agree with this article when it touched on the aspect that no real limits exist for anyone. I believe this is true because as humans we are constantly evolving and adapting to our ever-changing environment. With this in mind, there can never be any true limits because we will eventually find a way to go beyond.
I also agree with the importance biomechanics can play in preventing sports injuries. I hope to see more extensive research done to help prevent common injuries such as the ACL, MCL, etc. I feel that if athletes were given knowledge of techniques and exercises that may help prevent such injuries, it would make a world of a difference.
I did not disagree with anything in this article, but I did find it somewhat confusing and repetitive.
Connection
This article definitely sparked my interest on how important biomechanics is in any aspects of physical activity. Having an excellent understanding of biomechanics will definitely be beneficial in my future career as a trainer and instructor because it will allow me to help my clients achieve their optimal...