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Coping with perturbations to a layout somersault in tumbling
1School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Loughborough University, Ashby Road, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK. m.a.king@lboro.ac.uk
Journal of Biomechanics
|May 22, 2003
Summary
Gymnasts can adjust tumbling performance despite approach variations. Elite gymnasts can compensate for takeoff errors through adjustments in activation timing and body configuration during flight.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Science
- Motor Control
Background:
- Tumbling requires precise control of linear and angular momenta during approach and takeoff.
- Variability in these phases can impact repeated performance of complex gymnastic movements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how gymnasts manage perturbations in the approach and takeoff phases of tumbling.
- To determine the sensitivity of tumbling performance to various kinematic and dynamic parameters.
Main Methods:
- Development of a five-segment planar simulation model with joint torque generators.
- Customization of the model to an elite gymnast using subject-specific inertia and torque parameters.
- Simulation of a layout somersault to match real-world performance.
Main Results:
- Layout somersault performance is sensitive to approach characteristics and muscle activation timings.
- Performance is relatively insensitive to track elasticity and maximal muscle strength.
- Variations in activation timing can mitigate moderate approach perturbations.
- Body configuration adjustments in flight can correct takeoff errors up to 8% rotation.
Conclusions:
- Gymnasts can accommodate approach perturbations through takeoff and flight adjustments.
- Accurate perception of approach characteristics (within 5% or 5 degrees) and precise timing (within 7ms) are crucial for successful compensation.