Explain how the biomechanical principle of force absorption enhances safety when landing from a jump. (3 marks)
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- Bending knees upon landing increases absorption time. This occurs because joints flex gradually rather than stopping abruptly.
- As a result, peak impact forces reduce significantly. This protects cartilage and ligaments from sudden damaging stress.
- Quadriceps muscles lengthen while contracting during descent. This enables controlled deceleration which prevents jarring impacts on joints.
- Simultaneously, ankles, knees and hips flex together. This distributes forces across multiple segments rather than one joint.
- Therefore, no single joint bears excessive load. This reduces injury risk to bones, muscles and connective tissues.
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Sample Answer
- Bending knees upon landing increases absorption time. This occurs because joints flex gradually rather than stopping abruptly.
- As a result, peak impact forces reduce significantly. This protects cartilage and ligaments from sudden damaging stress.
- Quadriceps muscles lengthen while contracting during descent. This enables controlled deceleration which prevents jarring impacts on joints.
- Simultaneously, ankles, knees and hips flex together. This distributes forces across multiple segments rather than one joint.
- Therefore, no single joint bears excessive load. This reduces injury risk to bones, muscles and connective tissues.