Biomechanics of Athletics

Welcome to the home page of the Biomechanics of Athletics research group in the Division of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences (Brunel University London). 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).

Research Areas

• 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
• Computer simulation of long jump and high jump

• 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
• Effect of altitude on 100m sprint times
• Vertical jumping

• Prospective BSc(Hons), MSc, MPhil, and PhD students should contact Dr Nick Linthorne about research projects. Students already enrolled at Brunel University London should look at the Blackboard Learn sites for SP3700 Major Project and SP5530 MSc Dissertation.

Members

• Dr Nick Linthorne (Researcher)
• Patrick Fassbender (PhD student, Brunel University London)
• Nils Eckardt (MA student, Westfälische Wilhelms - University of Münster, Germany)

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

• PhD: Lisa Bridgett (2000-04), Masaki Wakai (1999-2004)
• MSc: Felipe Ceballos Rozo (2016-17), Lewis Guest (2015-16), Amber Luzar, Glen Paxman (2011-12), Nicky Carter (2003-04)
• BSc: Jonathan Gilworth (2016-17), Greg Millar (2014-15), Ashley Bryant, Michael Saad, Shanie Page (2012-13), Steve Barnard, Jane Black, Matt George (2010-11), Laura Allsop, Sam Hook, Patrick North, Sophia Turner, Gemma Weetman (2009-10), Dominique Blaize, Liz Checkley, Gavin Comber, Neil Crossley (2008-09), Naida Bromley, Montell Douglas, Greg Duggan, Nathan Marshall, Richard Webster, Shaufiq Ali (2007-08), Sara Bostock, Katrina Butler, Andrew Nicholson, Tom Reynolds, Sam Rickman, Kadi-Ann Thomas (2006-07), Craig Baker, Martin Heys, Gary Hill (2005-06), Katie Alderman, Sarah Fenwick, Eddie Lapworth, Michelle Smith (2004-05), Phil Banks, Nick Hart, Chris Morgan, Richard Townsend, Dan Ward, John Winter (2003-04), Daniel Carter, Austin Ferns, Edward Willis (2002-03), Maurice Guzman, Brett Kemble (1997-98)

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

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

• International Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF)
• British Athletics
• Athletics Australia