Human kinesiology

Abstract

This paper discusses kinesiological aspects of human locomotion in terms of the incomplete morphological adaptation of the body to current lifestyles.Modern instrumentation used for biomechanical analyses is outlined for the most part in the context of human running. Investigations of spatiotemporal and segmental measures by electronic walkways, photography, optoelectronics and angle-angle diagrams are referred to, as is electromyography and direct force measurement.Three commonly identifiable areas of applied kinesiological research, namely sport, industry and medicine, are considered with reference to the prevention, treatment and after-care of injuries whether received on the sporting field, in the work place, or in an automobile accident.The study of human kinesiology can take many forms, depending on one's major area of expertise and interest, and also on the connotation which one puts on the term. Because kinesiology has been derived from the Greek words "kinein" (to move) and "log~s" (to study), its literal meaning, "the study of motion,'' may be interpreted in a very general fashion to mean anything to do with movement. Thus it no longer necessarily assumes its earlier restricted connotation of external and musculoskeletal forces acting on pulleys and levers within a body to effect movement or maintain stability. Departments d physical education have been renamed departments of kinesiology and may embrace the sociological, physiological, psychological, historical, and mechanical bases of movement.For the more restricted use of the term kinesiology, biomechanics is currently the term more commonly used throughout the world. A simple but effective definition of the term is provided by Hay (1978): "Biomechanics is the science that examines the internal and external forces acting on a human body and the effects produced by these forces." Contini (1963) divides biomechanics into two areas:(a) General Biomechanics, which deals with the basic laws and rules which govern human and animal bodies in motion and at rest, and is further subdivided into biostatics and biodynamics.(b) Applied Biomechanics, which is more concerned with practical problems of improving movement, positions and human well-being in industry, agriculture, medicine, dentistry, military activities, sports and everyday life.