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Applied Biomechanics in Sports Performance, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation, 3rd Edition

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Applied Biosciences and Bioengineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2026 | Viewed by 1781

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Alfonso Penichet-Tomás

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Research Group in Health, Physical Activity and Sports Technology (HEALTH-TECH), Faculty of Education, University of Alicante, 03080 Alicante, Spain
Interests: sports performance analysis; sports technology; biomechanics; notational analysis; sports physiology; exercise testing; physical training; strength and conditioning; rowing
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The field of sports biomechanics has matured into a multidimensional discipline that transcends traditional observational analysis by integrating quantitative modeling, advanced instrumentation, and translational methodologies to enhance performance, mitigate injury risk, and optimize rehabilitation outcomes. Modern biomechanical research is now characterized by high-resolution motion capture, machine learning-assisted movement analysis, wearable sensor integration, and multiscale musculoskeletal modeling—enabling deeper interpretation of neuromechanical function under both controlled and ecological conditions.

Recent developments in computational biomechanics, sensor fusion, and real-time feedback systems have exponentially increased our ability to interpret the mechanical determinants of performance and pathological movement. This evolution has facilitated predictive analytics in injury forecasting, adaptive rehabilitation protocols informed by biomechanical biomarkers, and individualized performance prescriptions grounded in objective metrics. Such advances underscore the necessity to unify and disseminate cutting-edge research that bridges fundamental biomechanics, applied sports practice, and clinical rehabilitation.

This third edition of the Special Issue aims to spotlight research that advances the theoretical foundations and practical applications of biomechanics in sport and rehabilitation sciences. We particularly encourage submissions that exemplify robust methodological rigor, novel analytical frameworks, and multidisciplinary synthesis across biomechanics, motor control, technology development, and clinical translation.

Dr. Alfonso Penichet-Tomás
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Applied Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

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Keywords

  • sport performance
  • biomechanical analysis
  • sports technology
  • clinical biomechanics
  • kinematic
  • kinetic
  • motor rehabilitation
  • movement training
  • prevention
  • rehabilitation

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

15 pages, 3379 KB  
Article
Effects of Heavy Versus Regular Puck Training on Shooting Velocity in Junior Ice Hockey Players
by Robert Roczniok, Piotr Wiśniewski, Hanna Zielonka, Marta Polewka, Daria Manilewska, Aleksandra Urantówka, Maciej Praszczyk and Artur Terbalyan
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(11), 5685; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16115685 - 5 Jun 2026
Viewed by 116
Abstract
Background: Shooting velocity is a critical determinant of competitive success in ice hockey, yet evidence for the use of weighted-implement training in high-level junior players is limited and the long-term retention of such adaptations has not been documented. The aim of this study [...] Read more.
Background: Shooting velocity is a critical determinant of competitive success in ice hockey, yet evidence for the use of weighted-implement training in high-level junior players is limited and the long-term retention of such adaptations has not been documented. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of off-ice shooting training performed with a heavy (260 g) versus a regular (170 g) puck on on-ice shooting velocity, accuracy and handgrip strength in junior players, and to examine the retention of these changes. Methods: Twenty male junior ice hockey players (18–19 years) were randomly allocated to a Heavy-puck group (n = 10) or a Regular-puck group (n = 10) and completed an identical six-week off-ice shooting programme (18 sessions, 100 shots per session) with their respective pucks. On-ice wrist-shot and snap-shot speed (radar; standard 170 g puck for both groups), on-ice shooting accuracy and bilateral handgrip strength were assessed before the intervention (pre-test), immediately after six weeks (post 6 weeks) and after a six-week retention period of normal on-ice training (post 12 weeks). Data were analysed with 2 × 3 mixed-model ANOVA with Bonferroni-corrected post hoc comparisons. Results: A significant Group × Time interaction was found for wrist-shot speed (ηp2 = 0.61), snap-shot speed (ηp2 = 0.78), left-hand handgrip strength (ηp2 = 0.30) and shooting accuracy (ηp2 = 0.24). The Heavy-puck group displayed substantially larger velocity gains at both post 6 weeks (wrist shot d = 2.97; snap shot d = 4.73) and post 12 weeks (d = 2.56 and d = 3.21, respectively). Left-hand handgrip strength gain was also greater in the Heavy-puck group at post 12 weeks (d = 1.40). A short-term cost on accuracy was observed in the Heavy-puck group at post 6 weeks (d = −1.21), which was fully recovered at post 12 weeks. Conclusions: Heavy-puck off-ice training produced large and durable improvements in on-ice puck velocity, with a transient and recoverable cost on accuracy, supporting its inclusion in the off-ice preparation of junior ice hockey players. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics in Sports Performance, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation, 3rd Edition)
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11 pages, 382 KB  
Article
Using Heart Rate Variability and Respiratory Measures to Estimate Ventilatory Thresholds During Running in Adolescents
by Santiago A. Ruiz-Alias, Iván Fernández-Navarrete, Jerónimo Aragón-Vela, Pedro Á. Latorre-Román, Manuel Lucena-Zurita, Iñigo Tolosa Echarri and Felipe García-Pinillos
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(11), 5561; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16115561 - 2 Jun 2026
Viewed by 244
Abstract
This study aims to determine the validity of the short-term scaling exponent of detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA-a1), respiration rate, and the ratio between respiration rate and the DFA-a1 (RRa1) in the estimation of the load associated with the first and second ventilatory thresholds [...] Read more.
This study aims to determine the validity of the short-term scaling exponent of detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA-a1), respiration rate, and the ratio between respiration rate and the DFA-a1 (RRa1) in the estimation of the load associated with the first and second ventilatory thresholds (VT1, VT2) during running in a sample of adolescents. Twenty-two adolescents (11 males and 11 females) performed an incremental graded exercise test, monitored through the Polar H10 chest strap, synchronized with the Garmin Forerunner 965 equipped with the alphaHRV app. In the estimation of the load associated with the VT1, there was no significant HRV indices effect (F(2,36) = 1.528; p = 0.231), nor a HRV indices and sex interaction effect (F(2,36) = 0.319; p = 0.729). In the estimation of the VT2, there was a significant HRV indices effect (F(2,36) = 20.3; p ≤ 0.001). Specifically, DFA-a1 displayed a moderate overestimation of the speed associated with the VT2 (0.41 [0.14 to 0.68] km/h); meanwhile, the respiration rate (−0.56 [−1.03 to −0.09] km/h) and RRa1 (−0.87 [−1.38 to −0.36] km/h) displayed a small and large underestimation, respectively. No significant HRV indices and sex interaction effect was observed (F(2,36) = 1.626; p = 0.211). In conclusion, DFA-a1, respiration rate and RRa1 are valid HRV indices to estimate the load associated with the VT1. However, DFA-a1 displayed a moderate overestimation of the load associated with the VT2, while the respiration rate and RRa1 displayed a small and large underestimation, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics in Sports Performance, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation, 3rd Edition)
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11 pages, 1008 KB  
Article
Relationship Between Half Squat Load–Velocity Profile and Cycling Power Profile in Masters-Level Cyclists
by Fran Oficial-Casado, Alexis Soriano-Gandia and Jose Ignacio Priego-Quesada
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(11), 5346; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16115346 - 26 May 2026
Viewed by 265
Abstract
Background: Cycling performance depends on both aerobic capacity and neuromuscular function, with recent training approaches emphasizing the role of strength training. However, the extent to which neuromuscular characteristics assessed in conventional strength exercises transfer to cycling performance remains unclear. Therefore, the aim [...] Read more.
Background: Cycling performance depends on both aerobic capacity and neuromuscular function, with recent training approaches emphasizing the role of strength training. However, the extent to which neuromuscular characteristics assessed in conventional strength exercises transfer to cycling performance remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between the Load–Velocity (L-V) profile obtained from a multi-joint strength exercise (half squat) and the cycling Power Profile (PP) in Masters-level cyclists. Methods: Twelve masters-level cyclists were evaluated by the L-V and the PP test. The cycling PP was determined through maximal efforts of 1, 5, and 20 min, expressed relative to body mass (W·kg−1). The L-V profile was assessed during the half squat using a progressive loading protocol with load–velocity monitoring. Pearson’s correlation analyses were performed between the slope and intercept of the L-V profile relationship and PP variables, as well as mean ascent velocity (VAM). Results: No significant relationships were observed between L-V profile variables and cycling performance (r = −0.21 to 0.09, p > 0.05). In contrast, VAM showed very large associations with P1 (r = 0.81, p = 0.001) and P5 (r = 0.86, p < 0.001). The regression model explained a large proportion of the variance in VAM (R2 = 0.75, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Strength performance assessed through a conventional exercise such as the half squat is not directly related to cycling PP in masters-level cyclists. The observed relationships between VAM and cycling PP reinforce the importance of task specificity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics in Sports Performance, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation, 3rd Edition)
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12 pages, 599 KB  
Article
Association but Limited Agreement Between the My Jump Lab App and the NordBord in Assessing Eccentric Hamstring Function in Soccer Players
by Iago Martínez-Miguel, Alexis Padrón-Cabo, Pablo B. Costa and Ezequiel Rey
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(10), 5118; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16105118 - 20 May 2026
Viewed by 270
Abstract
Monitoring eccentric hamstring strength is critical for reducing injury risk in soccer players, yet laboratory-based technologies such as isokinetic dynamometry remain costly and impractical for field use. The purpose of this study was to examine the association and exploratory predictive relationship between variables [...] Read more.
Monitoring eccentric hamstring strength is critical for reducing injury risk in soccer players, yet laboratory-based technologies such as isokinetic dynamometry remain costly and impractical for field use. The purpose of this study was to examine the association and exploratory predictive relationship between variables derived from a smartphone application (My Jump Lab) and eccentric hamstring strength outputs obtained with an instrumented field device (NordBord, Vald Performance, Australia), while also quantifying their absolute agreement during the Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE). Thirty-one professional soccer players from a second-division United Arab Emirates team performed the NHE on the NordBord, while a simultaneous two-dimensional (2D) kinematic analysis was conducted using the My Jump Lab app (version 5.0 for iOS; My Jump Lab, Madrid, Spain). Pearson correlations, linear regression models, and Bland–Altman analyses were used to distinguish linear association/prediction from agreement/interchangeability. Results revealed a very large association between My Jump Lab-derived torque estimates and NordBord peak torque (r = 0.77, p < 0.001), with moderate associations for breakpoint angle (r = 0.42–0.43). A combined regression model using My Jump Lab torque and breakpoint angle explained 69.2% of the variance in NordBord torque (SEE = 15.30 N·m), although this predictive result should be interpreted as exploratory because the variables are task-specific and partly share anthropometric and mechanical determinants. Bland–Altman analysis revealed poor agreement, with a large systematic difference and proportional bias, indicating that My Jump Lab overestimated torque values at higher strength levels (mean bias = +511.9 N·m). Therefore, torque values derived from the app should be interpreted as relative indicators rather than absolute equivalents to instrumented measurements. From a practical perspective, My Jump Lab may offer a low-cost option for broad screening or relative group profiling when instrumented devices are unavailable, but it should not be used as a substitute for instrumented devices or for individual longitudinal monitoring based on absolute torque values. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics in Sports Performance, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation, 3rd Edition)
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17 pages, 1345 KB  
Article
Functional Symmetry of Upper Limbs in Young Adults: An Analysis of Muscle Strength and Mobility
by Piotr Osial, Michalina Błażkiewicz, Dagmara Iwańska and Jacek Wąsik
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(8), 3874; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16083874 - 16 Apr 2026
Viewed by 522
Abstract
Background: Upper limb functional performance depends on the interaction of strength, mobility, and neuromuscular control, while inter-limb asymmetries may increase injury risk. However, comprehensive analyses integrating these factors remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate sex differences and identify functional phenotypes in young [...] Read more.
Background: Upper limb functional performance depends on the interaction of strength, mobility, and neuromuscular control, while inter-limb asymmetries may increase injury risk. However, comprehensive analyses integrating these factors remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate sex differences and identify functional phenotypes in young adults using a multidimensional assessment approach. Methods: Forty-six healthy young adults (23 women, 23 men) underwent a comprehensive battery of upper limb assessments, including anthropometric measurements, maximal handgrip strength, isometric elbow flexion and extension torque, postural stability via the Fall Risk Index (FRI), and functional reach using the Upper Quarter Y-Balance Test (YBT-UQ). Inter-limb symmetry was calculated using the Limb Symmetry Index (LSI). K-means clustering was applied to standardized variables to identify latent functional phenotypes. Results: Men demonstrated significantly greater body mass, height, limb length, and absolute strength (p < 0.01), while functional performance (YBT-UQ composite scores) and inter-limb symmetry were similar between sexes. Strength asymmetry was most prevalent for elbow flexion and handgrip strength (up to 89%), whereas stability asymmetry was less frequent (≈54%). Three functional clusters were identified: Cluster 1—high strength and moderate stability, Cluster 2—lower anthropometry and strength, Cluster 3—high strength but reduced stability and increased asymmetry. Despite phenotypic differences, composite functional performance was comparable across clusters. Conclusions: Upper limb function reflects the interaction of morphological and neuromuscular factors rather than strength alone. Observed asymmetries should be interpreted within a functional context, as moderate asymmetries may represent normal variation in motor control, while larger asymmetries may indicate potential functional imbalance; however, due to the cross-sectional design of this study, no causal inferences regarding injury risk can be made. Functional phenotyping provides a framework for individualized training, screening, and rehabilitation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Biomechanics in Sports Performance, Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation, 3rd Edition)
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