Basic trigonometry for biomechanics

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the biomechanics of leg curls performed by bodybuilder “Hulk” Heise using a Cybex machine. Key calculations involve determining the moment arm length from the knee joint to the applied force (FA) of 500 N at a 55° angle, and the resulting torque about the knee joint. The torque calculation leads to the required muscle force (FM) from the hamstrings to counterbalance the extension torque. The exercise is identified as utilizing a 3rd class lever system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of trigonometry, specifically sine and cosine functions
  • Knowledge of biomechanics principles, including torque and moment arms
  • Familiarity with the anatomy of the knee joint and muscle forces
  • Experience with force diagrams and free body diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate moment arms in various exercises using trigonometric methods
  • Explore torque calculations in biomechanics for different joint movements
  • Investigate the mechanics of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class levers in physical therapy
  • Study the role of muscle forces in resistance training and injury prevention
USEFUL FOR

Fitness trainers, physical therapists, biomechanics students, and anyone interested in optimizing resistance training techniques and understanding the mechanics of muscle forces during exercise.

aljrx8
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Bodybuilder “Hulk” Heise is doing leg curls on a Cybex machine. “Hulk” gets stuck (see figure) with 90° angle at the knee joint. The force exerted by the machines (FA) on his leg is 500 N, directed at an angle of 55° (angle α) relative to the tibia, and the distance from “Hulk’s” knee joint to the point where the force is being applied is 55 cm (distance L). For this problem, assume the weight of the shank and foot is negligible and the muscle force (FM) acts perpendicular to the tibia in this position.

a. What is the length of the moment arm from the knee joint to the applied force (FA)? (hint: drawing a line and use trigonometry will help)
__________
b. What is the torque created by the applied force (FA), about the knee joint? __________
c. After finding the torque above, how much force is required from the hamstrings (FM) to balance or offset the extension torque created by the applied force (FA) (note: moment arm for the line of action of hamstring is given)
__________
d. Which lever is this exercise applied to (circle one)
1st lever 2nd lever 3rd lever
 

Attachments

  • Untitled2.jpg
    Untitled2.jpg
    3.8 KB · Views: 700
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
A larger image would be helpful.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
8K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 26 ·
Replies
26
Views
9K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
8K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
14
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
6K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K