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Biomechanist
Studies the mechanics of human movement — optimizing athletic technique and preventing injuries.
Did you know?
Usain Bolt's 100 m world record of 9.58 seconds, set in Berlin in 2009, is still unbeaten.
How subjects help
- Physics: Measure the forces through a runner's foot to find out why their shin keeps hurting.
- Biology: Study how muscles and tendons store and release energy like stretchy springs.
- Mathematics: Calculate joint angles and speeds from video to find the best throwing technique.
- Computer Science: Use motion capture cameras and software to build a moving model of an athlete on screen.
A famous name
Giovanni Alfonso Borelli: Called the 'father of biomechanics'; his book De Motu Animalium explained how muscles move the body.
Try it yourself: Train one skill for five days
- Pick a skill you can count in 30 seconds: keepy-uppies, skips, catches against a wall.
- Do a first test and write down your score.
- Practise for five minutes a day for five days.
- Test again. How much did you improve, and which day was the jump?
Coaches and athletes measure, practise and re-test; small daily practice beats one huge session.
Also try: Take your pulse like a nurse.
Known for it in
USA, Australia, UK, Germany, Japan