Falling: How Our Body Absorbs Force & Reducing Impact

In summary, when we fall, the ground imparts force to us in a process called impulse. The force is determined by how quickly our momentum changes over time. By bending our knees or rolling, we effectively lengthen the time over which the impulse is imparted, reducing the force felt by our body. This is because we are increasing the stopping distance and decreasing the deceleration required, according to Newton's law of Force = mass * acceleration. Proper rolling technique also involves unfolding at the end of the roll to distribute the force over a larger area.
  • #1
Miraj Kayastha
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How does our body absorb the force from falling? And if we roll or bend our knees while landing why is the force felt by our body less?

Can somebody explain?
 
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  • #2
In collision, the ground imparts force to you. The force is called impulse:

F = dp/dt
(where dp/dt is how your momentum, p, changes over time, t).

So if your momentum changes quickly over a short time, that's a bigger force than if it changes the same amount over a longer time.

If you bend your knees at the right rate, or you catch a ball by moving your hand in the direction the ball is going as you catch it, you are effectively lengthening the time over which the impulse is imparted, lowering the force.

Reducing impulse is involved in rolling too, but rolling is transforming your momentum into rotational energy so that you can slow yourself down throughout the roll (again reducing the time over which the impulse is imparted from the ground). Proper rolling technique also requires you unfold at the end of your roll, sprawling out your body to distribute the force over a larger area.
 
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  • #3
Miraj Kayastha said:
How does our body absorb the force from falling? And if we roll or bend our knees while landing why is the force felt by our body less?

If you don't bend your knees your whole body stops in a very short distance after the initial impact. If you allow your knees to bend the stopping distance for the rest of your body is increased.

If you have more distance over which to slow down the deceleration required is less. Newton law says Force = mass * acceleration. If the acceleration (or deceleration in this case) is smaller the force is smaller.
 
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1. How does our body absorb force when we fall?

When we fall, our body uses a combination of bones, muscles, and connective tissue to absorb the impact. Our bones act as shock absorbers, while our muscles and connective tissue work together to dissipate the force of the fall.

2. What happens to our body when we hit the ground after falling?

When we hit the ground after falling, our body goes through a series of reactions to absorb the impact. Our muscles contract to help dissipate the force, and our bones may bend or fracture to absorb the shock. Our connective tissue also helps to distribute the force throughout our body.

3. How can we reduce the impact of a fall?

There are several ways to reduce the impact of a fall. One way is to strengthen our bones and muscles through exercise, which can help them better absorb force. Wearing protective gear, such as helmets and knee pads, can also reduce the impact of a fall. Additionally, learning proper falling techniques, such as rolling with the fall, can help distribute the force and prevent serious injuries.

4. What are some factors that affect the impact of a fall?

The impact of a fall can be affected by various factors, including the height of the fall, the surface we are falling on, and our body's positioning during the fall. For example, falling from a greater height or onto a hard surface can result in a higher impact. Additionally, if we are able to control our body and land in a position that distributes the force, the impact can be reduced.

5. How does age and physical condition impact our body's ability to absorb force during a fall?

As we age, our bones become more brittle and our muscles may weaken, making it more difficult for our body to absorb the impact of a fall. This is why it is important for older individuals to engage in regular exercise and wear protective gear to reduce the risk of serious injuries. Conversely, individuals who are in good physical condition may be better able to absorb the impact of a fall due to their stronger bones and muscles.

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