Purpose of the Lab
The Biomechanics Lab includes a teaching and research space that allows faculty and students the opportunity to study the mechanics of human motion in detail, with a primary focus on strength and conditioning, rate of force development, and neuromuscular performance.
Lab Equipment
Equipment in the lab includes, but is not limited to;
- Force plates
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Motion analysis
- Electrogoniometers (ELGONS)
- Cycle ergometry
- Two Ariel Performance Analysis Systems (ACES)
- Reaction and response time testing.
Power Training Program (PTP)
The Biomechanics Lab is home to the Power Training Program – an independent study program that involves undergraduate students as part of a research team in the lab. The PTP uses theory, principles, and tools from biomechanics, movement analysis, and strength and conditioning to investigate neuromuscular efficiency, rate of force development, and performance. Results are applied and integrated into skill-specific training protocols in the strength and conditioning programs of student-athletes.
Benefits
Throughout the independent study, students gain the following experience.
- Cutting-edge technology, including the Ariel Computerized Exercise System (ACES), 3-D video analysis, force platforms, and electromyography.
- Biomechanical analysis to isolate movement patterns in a sport-specific skill.
- The implementation and design of training exercises.
- Literature from isokinetic and force-velocity theory to establish appropriate velocity-based training intensities for explosive power (as well as other training outcomes like strength or speed).
- Principles from strength and conditioning to include multijoint isokinetic training in a comprehensive training program that includes load-based and practice-based training during yearly cycles (e.g., off-season, pre-season, in-season).
- The collection of a vast amount of data using standardized techniques.
- Comparison of pre and post test assessments to measure training efficacy and effectiveness.