Computer simulation modelling in sport

Mathematical modelling using rigid bodies and elastic structures to represent body segments is explained together with various ways of representing the force-generating capabilities of muscle. Direct and indirect methods for determining the physical parameters associated with these elements are described. Before using a model to answer a research question it is first necessary to establish that the model is an adequate representation of the real physical system. This process of model evaluation by comparing model output with real data is discussed. Examples of applications of computer modelling are given along with guidelines on conducting and reporting a study. This chapter describes theoretical models used in sports biomechanics, detailing their various components and discussing their strengths and weaknesses. It discusses the process of building a mathematical model using rigid bodies and elastic structures to represent body segments and various ways of representing the force-generating capabilities of muscle. In the forward dynamics problem, the driving forces are specified and the problem is to determine the resulting motion. Whether to include wobbling masses depends on the activity being modelled, although it is not always obvious whether they are needed. The viscoelastic elements can be used to represent specific elastic structures within the body such as the heel pad or sports equipment such as the high bar, tumble track-foot interface or landing mat-foot interface. Optimising the parameter values has the potential for the springs to compensate for errors in the model.