“Biomechanics is the sport science field that applies the laws of mechanics and physics to human performance, in order to gain a greater understanding of performance in athletic events through modelling, simulation and measurement” (Wood, 2010)
Biomechanics of High Jump
Three Main Biomechanical Principles of High Jump being focused on:
“develops efficient movement patterns whether on the field of play or during resistance training, Improves sport-specific technique and form to enhance performance and minimize injury, and develops proper habits, ensuring that the athlete is able to develop in the long term” (Karanja, 2013).
- Momentum
- Centre of gravity
- Action/ Reaction Forces
“…that point in a body or system around which it’s mass or weight is evenly distributed or balanced and through which the force of gravity acts” ( Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2010)
“…the centre of gravity can lie entirely outside the body itself” (Wood, Center of Gravity, 2010)
My Fosbury Flop- Centre of Gravity
Little curve in my back
Centre of Gravity passed over the bar instead of underneath the bar.
“When an object has a bendy shape it is possible for its centre of gravity to lie outside of the body” (Barrow, 2011)
Curved body shape
Centre of gravity passing underneath the bar
, “… the tendency of an object to keep moving. Momentum is a vector quantity and depends on both the mass of the object and the velocity of the object.” (Montana State University, 1998)
Newtons Three Laws of Motion
1. Law of Inertia
2. Acceleration
3. Action/ Reaction Forces
Video
Generating Momentum
Lack of speed has resulted in myself using leg power in the jump instead of both using both momentum and acceleration in my jump.
“For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.” (Newton's Three Laws, n.d.)
The take off
Foot is planted at a 45 Degree angle
The athletes force from the body is applied onto the ground causing an equal and opposite reaction to occur, enabling an upward jumping motion and ultimately, the body to clear the bar.
Large angle between the ground and my Leg
Therefore, to use optimal action reaction forces in the take-off, one must develop greater momentum in the run up.
DrILL- tarGETING Action/ reaction forces and Momentum
High Skips on the track:
“I do this drill for ground contact and fast reaction from the floor.” Morgan Lake
If this drill is preformed correctly reaction time off the floor and momentum will be principles that benefit most from this drill.
1. Take off with your leg in front of you
2.Heel first, push off using the ball of your foot
3. Maintain a high skip with the body straight and heel up in front of you