Introduction to Sport and Exercise Biomechanics - SPOR4013

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Module delivery information

Location Term Level1 Credits (ECTS)2 Current Convenor3 2026 to 2027
Canterbury
Spring Term 4 20 (10) Matthew Robins checkmark-circle

Overview

How do sport scientists use maths and physics in a practical manner to better understand sport and exercise performances? Ever wondered how you can work out the force generated when performing a bench press? How much force is generated by an athlete at the start of a 100m sprint? You will be introduced to the basic mechanical principles of human movement and their applications to sports performance and exercise. You will learn via a mixture of lectures, seminars and lab practical classes. You'll be able to apply theoretical biomechanical knowledge to sporting scenarios, setting the foundation knowledge for a career as a sport and exercise scientist, whether in an applied setting or in teaching/ coaching.

Details

Contact hours

Lectures 8 hours, Practical 8 hours, Seminars 16 hours

Method of assessment

45 minutes Test. Assessment Details: VLE Test worth 30%.
2 hours Examination. Assessment Details: Examination worth 70%.

Reassessment Method: Like-for-like

Indicative reading

Learning outcomes

On successfully completing the module, students will be able to: 
1. Define basic biomechanical terms (e.g., linear and angular kinematics and kinetics)
2. Apply Newton's Laws and the impulse-change in momentum relationship to basic two dimensional whole body movement.
3. Perform basic trigonometric and algebraic techniques

Notes

  1. Credit level 4. Certificate level module usually taken in the first stage of an undergraduate degree.
  2. ECTS credits are recognised throughout the EU and allow you to transfer credit easily from one university to another.
  3. The named convenor is the convenor for the current academic session.
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