Loading...
Work, power and energy
Cole, Michael
Cole, Michael
Author
Abstract
When investigating the biomechanics of human movement, the term “work” is used to describe the relationship between the net forces applied to a body and its subsequent movements. However, some movements may require the work to be carried out within a relatively short period (e.g. shot-put), while others may allow the work to be conducted over an increased timeframe (e.g. walking stance phase). To appreciate the mechanical differences between such tasks, scientists may also be interested in describing the rate at which an athlete performs the work; that is, they may wish to evaluate the athlete’s power. This section describes the differences between positive and negative mechanical work and summarises the various sources of energy that provide the potential for work to be performed. Although when used in the context of human movement, the term “energy” can be limited to describing the chemical energy involved in muscle contraction, this section highlights the importance of mechanical energy sources such as potential energy and kinetic energy to human movement.
Keywords
Date
2019
Type
Book chapter
Journal
Book
Instant notes in sport and exercise biomechanics
Volume
Issue
Page Range
209-218
Article Number
ACU Department
Faculty of Health Sciences
Collections
Relation URI
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled