SIGNS OF THE TIMES IN SPORTS BIOMECHANICS

Abstract

Looking back over the past 10-15 years of sport bianechanics, we can see periods of emphasis (and indeed overemphasis) on: instrumentation (cameras, force plates , computers); methodology ( three dimensional analysis, modelling, data smoothing, on-line data collection) ; and subsequently, techniques of conveying information (angle diagrams, computer generated stick figures, vector diagrams). Until the latter part of the 197O's, there were few consistent contributors to the body of knowledge and both the number and scope of publications reflected this situation . Now, however, with appropriate instrumentation, methodology and techniques as well as individuals devoted to the research endeavor, we should be able to make research contributions in sport biomechanics in a more meaningful way than we have in the past .