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Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

2019

Western Kentucky University

Health and Physical Education

Biomechanics

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Effect Of Wheelchair Transfer Surface Firmness On Acceleration Of The Torso, Cassandra Chang, Scott P. Mclean, Edward Merritt, Laura Vides Feb 2019

Effect Of Wheelchair Transfer Surface Firmness On Acceleration Of The Torso, Cassandra Chang, Scott P. Mclean, Edward Merritt, Laura Vides

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Moving from a surface that provides adequate support can affect the quality of wheelchair transfers such that softer surfaces, which are less supportive may compromise these movements. PURPOSE: This research examined the effect of surface firmness on wheelchair transfer performance. METHODS: A convenience sample of fourteen healthy, able-bodied college students, who’s average height, weight and age were 76kg, 167 cm, and 20.5 years, respectively, participated in this study. Participants were taught a basic wheelchair transfer. A wireless triaxial accelerometer was positioned on the dorsal surface of the trunk at approximately the mid-thoracic level. Participants performed five trials under …


Can Changes In Running Biomechanics Under Body Weight Support Conditions Lead To Improvements In Aerobic And Anaerobic Energy Capacities?, Shernice A. Thomas, Christopher J. Arellano Feb 2019

Can Changes In Running Biomechanics Under Body Weight Support Conditions Lead To Improvements In Aerobic And Anaerobic Energy Capacities?, Shernice A. Thomas, Christopher J. Arellano

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

During the ground contact phase of running, muscles in the lower limb are required to generate force to support body weight which is the most energy-demanding task during running. We are interested in understanding how running mechanics change when we reduce the need for body weight support and how these effects determine maximal metabolic power at top speed. PURPOSE: We aim to determine the biomechanical determinants that underlie peak metabolic power during body weight (BW)-supported running. METHODS: Twenty-five healthy young adults (age 18-36, M/F, BMI < 30.0) who are experienced runners will be recruited for this study. Subjects will complete a graded exercise test to determine their peak metabolic power output at 100% BW at 75% BW. During each trial, subjects’ rates of expired oxygen and carbon dioxide, stance and leg swing times, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and heart rate will be recorded. RESULTS: Our preliminary findings show that similar peak metabolic power output values, at top speeds, …


Running Economy Strongly Related To Ground Contact Time Imbalances, Aaron D. Piper, Erica G. Knowles, Nicholas A. Guerra, Eric J. Jones, Dustin P. Joubert Feb 2019

Running Economy Strongly Related To Ground Contact Time Imbalances, Aaron D. Piper, Erica G. Knowles, Nicholas A. Guerra, Eric J. Jones, Dustin P. Joubert

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Running economy (RE) can be defined as the oxygen consumption or caloric unit cost required to move at a specific velocity. In addition to a runner’s maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and lactate threshold (LT), RE is a key endurance performance determinant. Better RE is advantageous as it represents the ability to run at a lower relative percentage of VO2max at a given speed and reduces the rate of energy depletion. Ground contact time (GCT) has been associated with RE, however it has not been established how GCT imbalances between feet impact economy. Purpose: Determine the relationship between cadence, GCT, and …