Evaluation of a Torque-Driven Model of Jumping for Height

Abstract

This study used an optimization procedure to evaluate an 8-segment torque-driven subject-specific computer simulation model of the takeoff phase in running jumps for height. Kinetic and kinematic data were obtained on a running jump performed by an elite male high jumper. Torque generator activation timings were varied to minimize the difference between simulation and performance in terms of kinematic and kinetic variables subject to constraints on the joint angles at takeoff to ensure that joints remained within their anatomical ranges of motion. A percentage difference of 6.6% between simulation and recorded performance was obtained. Maximizing the height reached by the mass center during the flight phase by varying torque generator activation timings resulted in a credible height increase of 90 mm compared with the matching simulation. These two results imply that the model is sufficiently complex and has appropriate strength parameters to give realistic simulations of running jumps for height.

Reducing ground reaction forces in gymnastics’ landings may increase internal loading

“…Subject-specific strength parameters for the gymnast's lumped muscles were calculated using a nine-parameter mathematical function determined from isokinetic dynamometer testing of the subject King et al, 2006;Mills et al, 2008). A series of maximal effort isometric and eccentric -concentric cycles on a dynamometer helped to determine muscle model parameters.…”

Considerations that affect optimised simulation in a running jump for height

“…The three stiffness parameters were allowed to vary by ±50% from the initial estimates which were determined from performances on a laboratory floor rather than an athletics track surface. The difference score was the root mean square of five components based on the difference between simulation and performance in terms of (1) trunk orientation, (2) joint angles, (3) time of contact, (4) linear momentum, and (5) angular momentum similar to the procedure of King et al (2006). Penalties were used to ensure that the matching simulation gave a peak height close to that of the performance and that joint angles remained within anatomical limits.…”

Effect of hip flexibility on optimal stalder performances on high bar

“…for the shoulder and the hip King et al, 2006). Since it was not possible to collect data on isokinetic ergometer with this gymnast, the model of another gymnast was scaled in order to respect the joint torques calculated using the stalder experimental.…”