This module will provide students with an introduction to functional anatomy and biomechanics. Various systems of the body (such as the musculoskeletal and nervous system) will be explored in the context of biomechanics. Students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of human movement analysis through studying basic anatomical and mechanical principles, including an analysis of the Musculo-skeletal system and movement patterns. Technologies and techniques for assessing sports-related kinematics and kinetics will be developed using laboratory exploration, with the aim to enhance sports performance or to minimise injury risk. Practical and technical skills in data collection, and skills in data analysis will also be taught and developed that will introduce students to research processes.

The MCE will require students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the structure and function of the Musculo-skeletal and nervous systems, basic biomechanics terminology, and anatomical movement descriptors. Students will also be examined on basic research processes via practical applications of laboratory and field-based technologies. The MCE will involve the use of a scientific calculator and require students to solve basic biomechanical problems to quantify movements and/or forces during sporting actions.

Formative feedback/assessment

Lab sessions will develop relevant skills throughout the module and formative assessment through regular feedback will be employed to enable students to reflect on and further develop their progress. Written tasks and short quizzes will also be provided, which will be either peer-assessed or answers will be given directly from module staff (e.g., via verbal or electronic format).

This module incorporates a tutor-lead lecture programme and practical sessions. Students will be required¿to conduct¿tutor-directed independent¿study, as well as student-lead enquiry and reading into research around¿the topics of the science of exercise prescription covered in the module. Online platforms will be utilised to support the delivery of the module. It will host resources and additional independent learning tasks for students to complete. Formative assessment will be incorporated throughout the module and regular peer feedback will be a feature of the delivery.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the structure and function of various systems of the body, and communicate the anatomical and mechanical principles of biomechanics

Knowledge and Understanding

Communication

Learning

2. Solve quantitative and qualitative biomechanical problems

Problem Solving

Analysis

3. Execute, evaluate and reflect on a range of methods and techniques to monitor and analyse human performance

Communication

Reflection

Analysis

4. Interpret and analyse biomechanical data obtained during test protocols.

Communication

Analysis

Blackboard Virtual Learning Environment

Microsoft Teams

Internet access

Library facilities

Fully equipped biomechanics and strength and conditioning laboratory

Indoor Hall/outdoor athletics field or pitch

Hamill, J. (2015) Biomechanical basis of human movement. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Kerr, A. (2010). Introductory biomechanics e-book. Elsevier Health Sciences.

McCaw, S. (2014). Biomechanics for dummies. John Wiley & Sons.

Students must meet the award entry criteria

This module will provide you with an introduction to functional anatomy and the various systems of the body (such as the musculoskeletal and nervous systems) in the context of biomechanics, which is the science of applying the principles of mechanics to a living body to detail how and why living bodies move the way they do. You will be introduced to the fundamental concepts of human movement analysis through studying basic anatomical and movement descriptors. You will also be introduced to the measurement of human movement, whether aimed to enhance sports performance or minimise injury risk, via technologies and techniques for assessing sports-related kinematics (the description of motion) and kinetics (the cause of motion). Through laboratory exploration, you will gain practical and technical skills in data collection and data analysis that will provide you with a basic understanding of research processes.