Applied Biomechanics and Sports Sciences: Closing Editorial

1. Introduction

The integration of biomechanics and sports sciences has accelerated markedly in recent years largely due to advances in sensor technology, data analytics, and computational modeling. Wearable devices, such as inertial measurement units and portable electromyography systems, have enhanced the capacity to capture real-time data in ecologically valid conditions, supporting both training and rehabilitation practices [1,2]. Parallel to this, artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches are increasingly employed in performance prediction and individualized training design [3,4]. However, substantial gaps remain since translating complex biomechanical findings into practical tools that coaches can apply with confidence continues to be a challenge, while longitudinal multi-level studies are still underrepresented [5]. Furthermore, there is limited integration across biomechanics, physiology and psychology, restricting our ability to holistically model athlete development. This Special Issue sought to highlight research directions that combine methodological rigor with real-world impact, in line with contributions to applied biomechanics, aquatic performance, and sprint profiling.

2. An Overview of Thematic Contributions

The contributions to this Special Issue can be grouped into four thematic clusters that mirror emergent research priorities. The first relates to accessible monitoring technologies, exemplifying the push toward accurate but low-cost tools that broaden the application of biomechanics beyond laboratory settings [6]. This perspective is consistent with our work on affordable and reliable measurement solutions for neuromuscular assessment in applied contexts [7,8]. A second cluster focuses on predictive modeling and longitudinal profiling, a field where advanced statistics and computational models are increasingly applied to monitor training adaptations and forecast record progression [9,10]. This resonates with our extensive contributions to swimming physiology and energetics, where integrative models have been developed to link biomechanics and bioenergetics to performance outcomes [11].

A third theme highlights underrepresented populations and contexts, such as female athletes, youth, and those recovering from injury. Addressing these gaps is essential to closing the persistent imbalance in sex- and age-based data in sport science [12]. The attention to such groups in this Special Issue also reflects the editorial vision of creating inclusive knowledge that informs talent identification and equitable training strategies. Finally, several studies focus on biomechanical variability and asymmetry, with applications in explosive actions and rehabilitation. This line of research reflects the necessity of accounting for functional imbalances when designing interventions [13,14]. Our research on sprint force–velocity profiling also exemplifies this principle, highlighting how individualized mechanical profiles can guide strength and speed training, optimizing performance while reducing risk of injury [8,15].

3. Conclusions and Future Directions

The contributions in this Special Issue illustrate the breadth of contemporary applied biomechanics, spanning validation of new tools, predictive analytics, profiling of youth athletes and clinical rehabilitation. A recurrent theme is that biomechanics must not be considered in isolation, but should be integrated with physiology, psychology, and training methodology to capture the complexity of sport performance. Persistent challenges include the need for standardized approaches across laboratory and field contexts, the greater inclusion of underrepresented populations and the translation of sophisticated methods into user-friendly formats for practitioners [5,16]. Future research should prioritize longitudinal and integrative frameworks that track adaptation over time, advanced computational tools (including artificial intelligence and force–velocity profiling for individualized diagnostics; [17]) and equitable approaches tailored to women, youth, and clinical populations [12]. In addition, scalable wearable technologies must be designed with attention to ethical and practical factors, such as affordability and data privacy [2,18]. Building on the expertise of this Special Issue’s Guest Editors, the future of applied biomechanics should continue to move toward integrated, accessible and impactful applications that benefit both elite sport and broader human performance contexts.