Biomechanics

Fundamentals of Biomechanics introduces the exciting world of how human movement is created and how it can be improved. Teachers, coaches and physical therapists all use biomechanics to help people improve movement and decrease the risk of injury. The book presents a comprehensive review of the major concepts of biomechanics and summarizes them in nine principles of biomechanics. Fundamentals of Biomechanics concludes by showing how these principles can be used by movement professionals to improve human movement. Specific case studies are presented in physical education, coaching, strength and conditioning, and sports medicine.

This book contains fourteen chapters dealing with various aspects of the biomechanics of today. The topics covered are glimpses of what modern biomechanics can offer scientists, students, and the general public. We hope this book can be inspiring, helpful, and interesting for many readers who are not necessarily concerned with biomechanics daily.

This is the first textbook to comprehensively cover the experimental methods used in biomechanics. Designed for graduate students and researchers studying human biomechanics at the whole-body level, the book introduces readers to the theory behind the primary data collection methods and primary methods of data processing and analysis used in biomechanics.

Biomechanics applies the principles and rigor of engineering to the mechanical properties of living systems. This book integrates the classic fields of mechanics–statics, dynamics, and strength of materials–using examples from biology and medicine. Fundamentals of Biomechanics is excellent for teaching either undergraduates in biomedical engineering programs or health care professionals studying biomechanics at the graduate level. Extensively revised from a successful first edition, the book features a wealth of clear illustrations, numerous worked examples, and many problem sets. The book provides the quantitative perspective missing from more descriptive texts, without requiring an advanced background in mathematics. It will be welcomed for use in courses such as biomechanics and orthopedics, rehabilitation and industrial engineering, and occupational or sports medicine.