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The punctum fixum-punctum mobile model: a neuromuscular principle for efficient movement generation?
Christoph von Laßberg1, Walter Rapp2
1Institute of General Kinesiology and Athletics Training, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany; Medical Clinic, Department of Sports Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
Plos One
|March 31, 2015
Summary
The punctum fixum-punctum mobile model explains efficient movement by ensuring neuromuscular onset succession travels from the rotation axis to the body part. This principle applies across various movements and body positions, optimizing athletic performance.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Motor Control
- Sports Science
Background:
- The punctum fixum-punctum mobile model posits a specific neuromuscular onset succession for effective body part acceleration.
- Understanding this principle is key to optimizing intentional rotational movements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if the punctum fixum-punctum mobile principle is fundamental for all efficient rotational accelerations.
- To examine its applicability across different movement types, rotational axes, body positions, and directions.
Main Methods:
- Surface electromyography (EMG) recorded neuromuscular onset succession in 16 elite gymnasts.
- EMG data captured relevant muscles during 18 gymnastics elements and non-sport specific pivot movements.
- Statistical analysis evaluated onset time differences within muscle chains.
Main Results:
- All analyzed movement phases supported the punctum fixum to punctum mobile succession pattern.
- Succession patterns reversed direction when the rotational axis changed (e.g., hands vs. feet).
Conclusions:
- The findings confirm the punctum fixum-punctum mobile model as a fundamental principle for efficient rotational acceleration.
- This knowledge can refine training methods for faster motor learning in sports and daily movements.
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