Biomechanics in Sports

The course introduces students in anatomical and physiological principles that apply to the human body, with the perspective of technical application, including mathematical modelling. This includes the structure of skeletal muscle, tendon and bone and their function in movement and acceleration. Furthermore, the nervous system and its function in movement control and coordination are discussed.
Emphasis is put on the effects of physical training, repetitive loading and environmental factors that may contribute and prevent sports injuries. Otherwise, the role of the interaction between the athlete and its local physical environment in training will be discussed. As an example, the physical characteristics of the floor the athlete moves over will be discussed, both with respect to training and injury prevention. It is assumed that the students have good competence in mathematics and physics.

Students who have good competence in mathematics and physics will be able to apply this to biomechanics of sports and physical activity. The course aims at introducing the students to anatomy and physiology as well as to advance understanding of mechanical loading of the human body and training effects.

Up to 4 hours lectures/exercices/group work per week. The course can be taught in English if requested.