Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

In this unit students are exposed to a broad range of topics in the field of biomechanics, ranging from Newton's laws, aerodynamics, clinical gait analysis and tissue mechanics. The biomechanical basis of movement is studied with special focus on sport techniques and the musculoskeletal system. The unit is complemented with practical laboratories to provide students with an applied understanding of how biomechanics can be used to influence both athletic and clinical populations. From both a theoretical and practical approach, students learn how biomechanics can be applied to sport, exercise and rehabilitation settings. For example students are shown how to improve an athlete's performance, reduce an individual's risk of injury and prevent/manage pathological gait disorders in clinical/special populations.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe movement from a biomechanical perspective; (2) understand how kinematic and kinetic variables relate to 2D movements; (3) link basic muscle mechanics to exercise rehabilitation programs; (4) understand the characteristics of normative and pathological gait; (5) comprehend how the internal and external forces associated with movement interrelate in optimal performance; and (6) understand how external forces act on the body while in water.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) mid-semester evaluations; (2) short answer final examination; and (3) lab participation and assessment. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Machar Reid and Dr Nat Benjanuvatra
Unit rules
Prerequisites

Enrolment in
MJD-SEHDM Sport Science, Exercise and Health
or MJD-SPTSC Sport Science
and Successful completion of
SSEH1101 The Musculoskeletal System and Movement
or SSEH1102 Applied Anatomy and Athletic Performance

or
Enrolment in
CM017 Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Sciences and Master of Public Health
or CM018 Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Sciences and Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology
or CM019 Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Sciences and Master of Applied Human Performance Science

or with permission of the unit coordinator
Contact hours
lectures (online) - approx 3 hrs per week
labs: 1 x 1 hour per week
Texts

Hamill, J. and Knutzen, K. Biomechanical Basis of Human Movement, 3rd edn: Williams & Wilkins 2009

Richards, J. Biomechanics in Clinic and Research: Churchill Livingstone 2008

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.