Importance of Linear Mechanics in Sports

Using Proprioceptive Stimulation to Improve Level of Performance in Competitive Sports

Level of performance in all sports, to a large degree, depends on the mechanical efficiency and linearity of movement. By this we mean the joints in the human body must function around their anatomical neutral position in order to generate maximum power while maintaining postural stability.

A good example of this principle is observed in power lifting (See photo below). The power lifter is concerned with (1) establishing a solid foot to ground position (e.g., "the sweet spot" where the foot functions around its anatomical neutral position) and (2) preventing any torsion or twisting in his legs, hips or shoulders while lifting (e.g., linearity of movement). If either of these two principles is compromised, the weight lifters level of performance dramatically suffers.

                                   

Courtesy of Gorilla Pack Power Lifting Club
in Johnstown, N.Y.   Mike Miller, 6'5", 385 lbs.

Several years ago, at a workshop for power lifters at Gold's Gym in St. Petersburg Florida, we noticed one particular lifter having great difficulty keeping his right shoulder from rotating forward as he power lifted 500 lbs. (the maximum amount he could lift). Concurrently, he would spend several minutes before each lift trying to find "the sweet spot" between his foot and ground where he felt most stable. During his lift, we noted a counter clockwise torsion in his thoracic spine as his feet abnormally pronated.  With his permission, he repeated this power lift using proprioceptive activators.

Result:  (1) He found his "sweet spot" within several seconds (instead of minutes)  (2) He lifted 500 lbs. with considerably less effort.  We noted a more linear motion in his mechanics, e.g. his right shoulder was not as forward, as he lifted.  His foot alignment improved (less pronation).

He then increased his lifting weight to 525 lbs. He was able to power lift this weight for the first time in his life!  This is just one example of linear mechanics improving performance.

Importance of linear mechanics, initiated by correct foot function,
in bicyclists

     Bailey MP, Maillardet FJ, Messenger N, 2003. Kinematics of cycling in relation to anterior knee pain and patellar tendonitis,  Jour Sports Science Vol 21(8):649-657.