Abstract

The science of biomechanics is the application of the mechanical science to the human body and sporting implements, and studies the forces on (and caused by) the human body and the subsequent results of those forces. Sports performance is at the heart of the coaching process. It is the transformation of sports performance that is the essential and defining element of the process. Clearly, an understanding and awareness of the application of biomechanical principles to sports performance is an important part of the coach�s technical repertoire. This chapter will describe biomechanics and biomechanical methods of analysis, move on to the application of biomechanics within the coaching process and, finally, suggest future directions for biomechanics research and application in coaching. Sporting examples are used wherever possible, with particular reference to those sports in which the author has some experience. aus der Einleitung