1	Introduction to Biomechanics Jessica Olfert PHYS 420 April 7, 2008
2	Audience Learning Objectives At the end of my presentation, you will be able to: Define biomechanics List the biological factor that could increase how fast a pitcher will be able to pitch. And list what mechanics concept explains this
3	What is Biomechanics? BIOMECHANICS The scientific study of the mechanics of biological and especially muscular activity (as in locomotion or exercise)
4	Review of basic Newtonian mechanics Force – causes motion or change of motion What produces the force responsible for human motion? MUSCLE
5	"Velocity" Velocity the rate of change of position along a straight line with respect to time
6	"Impulse" Impulse Momentum
7	"Torque -" Torque -
8	Throwing-arm demonstration What speed do major-league baseball players throw? Often fastballs are between 90 and 100mph (or 145 – 160 km/h). The fastest pitches have ranged from 100.9 mph in 1975 and 101 mph in 2005. * 1 Mile per Hour = 0.44704 Meters per Second
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10	"What would make these pitchers..." What would make these pitchers throw faster? Weight training? Steroids? Experience?
11	Why hasn’t pitching speed improved? By around 100mph, additional muscle mass doesn't help throw a baseball any faster. It has been calculated that bout 80 newton-meters of torque act on a pitchers elbow when he throws it at 100 mph. Any more torque on their elbow, the tendons would probably snap.
12	SO… What can be done? Tendon re-attachment? Model throwing arm Scientific examination
13	"In groups of 4 or..." In groups of 4 or 5, discuss the following:
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15	"Conclusions/Discussion" Conclusions/Discussion: As it turns out, this model would have us believe that the further away the attachment, the faster the throw. Why?
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18	Summary Biomechanics: The scientific study of the mechanics of biological and especially muscular activity (as in locomotion or exercise) 2. A genetic factor would predispose a pitcher to throw fast: Tendon attachment i. What physics concept explains this? Torque, angular velocity
19	Conclusion / Wrap-up How is Biomechanics is used in the real world? elite/professional sports sports medicine whiplash prevention lower back pain prosthetics development
20	"QUESTIONS" QUESTIONS?