Biomechanics of Athletics

Welcome to the home page of the Biomechanics of Athletics research group in the School of Sport and Education (Brunel University).  This group is dedicated to the understanding and application of biomechanical aspects of Athletics (known as Track and Field in some parts of the world).

Members

• Dr Nick Linthorne (Researcher)
• Amber Luzar, Glen Paxman (MSc students 2011-12)

• Pedro Alcaraz (Researcher, Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia)
• Jose Luis Elvira (Researcher, Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia)
• Asuncion Martínez-Valencia (Researcher, Universidad Castilla la Mancha)

• Lisa Bridgett (PhD 2000-04)
• Masaki Wakai (PhD 1999-2004)
• Nicky Carter (MSc 2003-04)
• Steve Barnard, Jane Black, Matt George (Honours students 2010-11)
• Laura Allsop, Sam Hook, Patrick North, Sophia Turner, Gemma Weetman (Honours 2009-10)
• Dominique Blaize, Liz Checkley, Gavin Comber, Neil Crossley (Honours 2008-09)
• Naida Bromley, Montell Douglas, Greg Duggan, Nathan Marshall, Richard Webster, Shaufiq Ali (Honours 2007-08)
• Sara Bostock, Katrina Butler, Andrew Nicholson, Tom Reynolds, Sam Rickman, Kadi-Ann Thomas (Honours 2006-07)
• Craig Baker, Martin Heys, Gary Hill (Honours 2005-06)
• Katie Alderman, Sarah Fenwick, Eddie Lapworth, Michelle Smith (Honours 2004-05)
• Phil Banks, Nick Hart, Chris Morgan, Richard Townsend, Dan Ward, John Winter (Honours 2003-04)
• Daniel Carter, Austin Ferns, Edward Willis (Honours 2002-03)
• Maurice Guzman, Brett Kemble (Honours 1997-98)

• Theoretical studies using mathematical modelling and computer simulation
• Experimental studies using video and force platforms
• Optimisation of the technique of elite performers

• Resisted sprint training devices
• Improving performance in the javelin throw
• Effect of altitude on 100m sprint times
• Computer simulation of long jump and high jump
• Release angle in paralympic shot-putters

• Take-off technique of elite long jumpers
• Standing long jump
• Optimum takeoff angle in the long jump
• Optimum release angle in the shot put
• Advantage of the flexible pole in pole vaulting
• Wind assistance in sprinting
• Vertical jumping

• Prospective BSc(Hons), MSc, MPhil, and PhD students should contact Dr Nick Linthorne about research projects. Students already enrolled at Brunel University should look at the u-Link sites for SP3022 Dissertation and SP5500 MSc Dissertation.

• List of Facilities available to the Biomechanics of Athletics research group.

• Brunel University
• The University of Sydney
• NSW Institute of Sport

• International Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF)
• UK Athletics
• Athletics Australia
• Para-Shot Project