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Biomechanics and Motor Control on Human Movement Analysis: 2nd Edition

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Dear Colleagues,

The human movement system relies heavily on motor control, which is essential for motor performance. Motor control is based on continuous interactions between the individual, the task, and the environment. The study of human movement from a biomechanical perspective is inseparable from the processes involved in controlling movement.

This Special Issue is dedicated to highlighting current research that enhances our comprehension of biomechanics and motor control in human movements. We welcome all forms of studies, including both traditional and innovative analyses, encompassing linear and non-linear measures, and embracing all perspectives that contribute to elucidating various aspects of human movement.

This Special Issue seeks the submission of high-quality, original research papers in the fields of biomechanics and motor control related to the analysis of healthy and impaired movements, sports, and occupational activities. We invite researchers and experts to contribute their methods and findings to deepen our understanding of human movement and to introduce innovative approaches in this field.

Prof. Dr. Maria António Castro
Dr. Orlando Fernandes
Prof. Dr. Rui Mendes
Guest Editors

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12 pages, 495 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Relationship Between Vertical Jump and Short Sprint Performance in Female Basketball Players

by Raúl Nieto-Acevedo, Carlos García-Sánchez, Pablo Abián, Javier Abián-Vicén, Alfredo Sánchez-Bravo and Javier Díaz-Lara

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 4868; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15094868 - 27 Apr 2025

Viewed by 439

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the relation between vertical jump and short sprint. A total of 14 female basketball players (n = 14; age: 20.9 ± 6.0 years; height: 177.0 ± 3.0 cm; body mass: 69.0 ± 11.1 kg) were assessed for Abalakov jump (ABKJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and a 20 m sprint. The relationships between sprint and vertical jumps were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and lineal regression, while discriminative parameters between backcourt and frontcourt players were assessed using independent t-tests. Higher associations were found between vertical jumps and sprint parameters, particularly CMJ height, showing a strong correlation with sprint time in 0–10 m (r = 0.805), 10–20 m (r = 0.798), and 0–20 m (r = 0.822). Jump metrics could provide a valid and reliable alternative for estimating sprint times over short distances in female basketball players. This finding could be an efficient alternative to save time in evaluations for team sports. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics and Motor Control on Human Movement Analysis: 2nd Edition)

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41 pages, 40949 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Neurobiomechanical Characterization of Feedforward Phase of Gait Initiation in Chronic Stroke: A Linear and Non-Linear Approach

by Marta Freitas, Pedro Fonseca, Leonel Alves, Liliana Pinho, Sandra Silva, Vânia Figueira, José Félix, Francisco Pinho, João Paulo Vilas-Boas and Augusta Silva

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 4762; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15094762 - 25 Apr 2025

Viewed by 208

Abstract

Postural control arises from the complex interplay of stability, adaptability, and dynamic adjustments, which are disrupted post-stroke, emphasizing the importance of examining these mechanisms during functional tasks. This study aimed to analyze the complexity and variability of postural control in post-stroke individuals during the feedforward phase of gait initiation. A cross-sectional study analyzed 17 post-stroke individuals and 16 matched controls. Participants had a unilateral ischemic stroke in the chronic phase and could walk independently. Exclusions included cognitive impairments, recent surgery, and neurological/orthopedic conditions. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected during 10 self-initiated gait trials to analyze centre of pressure (CoP) dynamics and joint angles (−600 ms to +50 ms). A 12-camera motion capture system (Qualisys, Gothenburg, Sweden) recorded full-body kinematics using 72 reflective markers placed on anatomical landmarks of the lower limbs, pelvis, trunk, and upper limbs. Ground reaction forces were measured via force plates (Bertec, Columbus, OH, USA) to compute CoP variables. Linear (displacement, amplitude, and velocity) and non-linear (Lyapunov exponent—LyE and multiscale entropy—MSE) measures were applied to assess postural control complexity and variability. Mann–Whitney U tests were applied (p < 0.05). The stroke group showed greater CoP displacement (p < 0.05) and reduced velocity (p = 0.021). Non-linear analysis indicated lower LyE values and reduced complexity and adaptability in CoP position and amplitude across scales (p < 0.05). In the sagittal plane, the stroke group had higher displacement and amplitude in the head, trunk, pelvis, and limbs, with reduced LyE and MSE values (p < 0.05). Frontal plane findings showed increased displacement and amplitude in the head, trunk, and ankle, with reduced LyE and MSE (p < 0.05). In the transverse plane, exaggerated rotational patterns were observed with increased displacement and amplitude in the head, trunk, pelvis, and hip, alongside reduced LyE convergence and MSE complexity (p < 0.05). Stroke survivors exhibit increased linear variability, indicating instability, and reduced non-linear complexity, reflecting limited adaptability. These results highlight the need for rehabilitation strategies that address both stability and adaptability across time scales. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanics and Motor Control on Human Movement Analysis: 2nd Edition)

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