Outline how the biomechanical principle of force application can improve movement efficiency for athletes with disabilities. (4 marks)
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Sample Answer
- Wheelchair athletes apply maximum force through arms to wheel rims, generating forward momentum and speed.
- Athletes with prosthetic limbs develop remaining muscles (quadriceps, hamstrings) to transfer force through prosthetic devices effectively.
- Force direction understanding helps para-athletes adjust movement patterns, reducing energy waste and maximising propulsion efficiency.
- Specialised equipment design (custom wheelchairs, prosthetics) incorporates biomechanical principles to enhance force transfer from body to ground.
- Technical modifications include optimising push angles in wheelchairs and adjusting prosthetic alignment for better force application.
- Training adaptations focus on strengthening specific muscle groups to compensate for missing limbs or paralysed segments.
Show Worked Solution
Sample Answer
- Wheelchair athletes apply maximum force through arms to wheel rims, generating forward momentum and speed.
- Athletes with prosthetic limbs develop remaining muscles (quadriceps, hamstrings) to transfer force through prosthetic devices effectively.
- Force direction understanding helps para-athletes adjust movement patterns, reducing energy waste and maximising propulsion efficiency.
- Specialised equipment design (custom wheelchairs, prosthetics) incorporates biomechanical principles to enhance force transfer from body to ground.
- Technical modifications include optimising push angles in wheelchairs and adjusting prosthetic alignment for better force application.
- Training adaptations focus on strengthening specific muscle groups to compensate for missing limbs or paralysed segments.