Biomechanics is the study of the 'mechanical behaviors of living organisms and stuctures and the forces that act upon them'. Or, as I like to think 'muscles in motion'. How you use your muscles are based on a number of factors and will have obvious implications for your sport and training.

You have probably heard the term biomechanics mentioned in relation to injury. If an athlete is suffering from recurring injuries they will usually have a biomechanical assessment. How they use their body during their sport can be measured and weakness identified. But it is possible to do a quick and simple biomechanic assessment of yourself. All you need is a chair and a friend. No scientific equipment required - see below.

Instant biomechanics assessment

Sit in a chair and ask your partner to watch what happens to your head when you stand up. Does your movement look like the subject in the photo below?

Did you pull back your head? Tighten your lower back? Push your chest forward? Or did you feel the need to use your arms to stand? All of these actions do not directly help you to get out of a chair, in fact they will make it harder. Watch what other people do and see if they do any of the actions mentioned above. Compare with the photo below and note the absence of tension in the neck, shoulders and back.

In the movement above, only the appropriate muscles needed to get you out of the chair are used - mainly the quadriceps at the front of your legs. If you find you are pulling your head back, tightening your back, or doing anything to get ready to stand up, they will make the movement less efficient. If you use less than efficient movements to get out of a chair, what are you doing in your training where actions are far more complex?

The big question is:-

If I can make getting out of a chair hard work,
what am I doing in my sport?

If you are using the wrong muscles at the wrong time what is that going to do to your body and your performance? Take a look at my programs for one that could help you correct your biomechanics . They contain no repetitive exercises with movements that have nothing in common with efficient, natural activity. My procedures will develop your vital skills of self-awareness and focus, skills I believe will get your body working at its peak.

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Want to ask a question? My view of what fitness means and how it can be attained is different to the conventional approach. If there is anything on this page that you would like to follow up please feel free to contact me