There biomechanics studies the movement of the human motor machine in response to internal and external stimuli, exploiting concepts of mechanics, anatomy, physics and even psychology. Applied to sport, it allows you to act effectively against physical and mental stress, which can manifest itself in the form of physical weakness, lengthening of recovery times, wear and tear on the body, inflammation or even injuries. Thanks to the expedients developed by biomechanics, it is therefore possible to go back to keeping healthy, feeling free and releasing the tensions accumulated in the frenetic everyday life, forgetting uncomfortable interruptions and negative effects on health and performance.
The biomechanics of movement, in addition to being, on a theoretical level, a revolutionary discipline in the world of sport, has very interesting practical implications for all athletes, who can undergo a biomechanical analysis to improve their performance.
Why do a biomechanical visit and how it works
The reasons behind a biomechanical visit can be very varied. The most common need is that of biomechanical risk assessment, i.e. to reduce, prevent or even resolve overload pathologies, or, for example for cyclists, it may be a matter of maintaining adequate biomechanics of the spine and improving the problems saddle support. The primary objective of the biomechanic, in his visit, is to identify functional limitations, understand which compensations to work on and correct the sportsman's movements through specific exercises and functional products.
This means that, at the end of the biomechanical visit, often performed as a video analysis, he will be able to clarify which points or which adjustments may cause a problem during pedaling or other recurring movements and above all he will have a broader picture of the aspects related to well-being of the sportsman. The advantage of a good biomechanical evaluation translates, for the athlete, into greater efficiency in movements, prevention of the most common pathologies related to functional overload and greater effectiveness of training.
Functional biomechanical assessment for cycling
Biomechanics for cycling studies the relationship between the six points of support of the body with the bicycle, the movement of the joints and of the unconstrained body segments (knees, elbows, trunk and head) and how these contribute to the application of forces to produce the movement of the bicycle. The goal is pedaling analysis to find a sustainable position on the saddle for the duration of the effort and thus promote the maximum level of performance.
Biomechanical evaluation of running
A biomechanical consultation for running, usually performed by and in a biomechanical laboratory, aims to evaluate running technique, improve performance and prevent injuries or problems related to specific movements. After a sports and clinical anamnesis, followed by a study of the footwear used, the athlete is subjected to an evaluation of static and functional balance and an analysis of the run using slow motion shots, aimed at improving his technique.
3D biomechanics and advanced assessment techniques
Postural and biomechanical assessment has made great strides in terms of tools and technologies. In addition to the classic software in the cloud to process the measurements of the cyclist and the bicycle, such as SoftVelò by Velosystem, analysis software that identifies the joint points of the joints without the aid of markers but through 3D scanning is increasingly widespread, which allows an in-depth analysis of the athlete both in static and dynamic condition. Integration with automation systems helps to evaluate possible solutions.
How much does a biomechanical analysis cost
The cost of a biomechanical visit, starting from the biomechanical evaluation of the knee up to the bike fitting for cyclists, varies from €40 to €160, based on the professionalism of the biomechanic, the technologies used and the related services offered. But is a biomechanical evaluation deductible? The answer depends on the specificity of the individual case. In general, the expenses incurred for a biomechanical evaluation are deductible if the same is carried out at an authorized medical center under the responsibility of the Medical Director.
Biomechanics applied to stockings
The FLOKY socks are the first technical sports socks based on the principles of applied biomechanics. The use of graduated compression, which acts through innovative screen-printing applications, guarantees compliance with the biomechanical functions during movement, exerting the right pressure where needed, improving venous return and thus allowing for the reduction of injuries.
The structure of the sock and the applied elements are configured in such a way as to respect the functions of the leg and foot according to biomechanical, circulatory and neurological aspects, in order to harmonize these effects with each other, obtaining therapeutic, preventive and performance-enhancing efficacy. FLOKY socks have numerous benefits in addition to that of graduated compression, which concern for example metatarsal and malleolus support, support in the push movement, protective action on the heel and Achilles tendon, the effects of breathability, lightness and comfort.
