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Considerations that affect optimised simulation in a running jump for height

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journal contribution
posted on 2010-05-12, 15:27 authored by Cassie Wilson, Fred YeadonFred Yeadon, Mark KingMark King
This study used a computer simulation model to investigate various considerations that affect optimum peak height in a running jump. A planar eight-segment computer simulation model with extensor and flexor torque generators at five joints, was formulated and customised to an elite male high jumper. A simulation was matched to a recorded high jumping performance by varying the activation profiles of each of the torque generators giving a simulated peak height of 1.99 m compared to the recorded performance of 2.01 m. In order to maximise the peak height reached by the mass centre in the flight phase the activation profiles were varied, keeping the same initial conditions as in the matching simulation. Optimisations were carried out without any constraints, with constraints on the angular momentum at takeoff, with further constraints on joint angles, and with additional requirements of robustness to perturbations of activation timings. A peak height of 2.37 m was achieved in the optimisation without constraints. Introducing the three constraints in turn resulted in peak heights of 2.21 m, 2.14 m and 1.99 m. With all three types of constraint included the peak height was similar to that achieved in the recorded performance. It is concluded that such considerations have a substantial influence on optimum technique and must be included in studies using optimised simulations.

History

School

  • Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences

Citation

WILSON, C., YEADON, M.R. and KING, M.A., 2007. Considerations that affect optimised simulation in a running jump for height. Journal of Biomechanics, 40 (14), pp. 3155-3161

Publisher

© Elsevier

Version

  • AM (Accepted Manuscript)

Publication date

2007

Notes

This article was accepted for publication in the Journal of Biomechanics [© Elsevier] and the definitive version is available at: www.elsevier.com/locate/jbiomech

ISSN

0021-9290

Language

  • en