Symmetry and Asymmetry in Biomechanics and Gait Mechanics

A special issue of Symmetry (ISSN 2073-8994). This special issue belongs to the section "Life Sciences".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 208

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém 66075110, PA, Brazil
Interests: biomechanics of human movement; symmetry and asymmetry in gait mechanics; sensor-based motion tracking for performance analysis; wearable technologies for gait and balance assessment; computational modeling of human movement; biomechanics of sports performance and injury prevention; movement symmetry in rehabilitation and assistive technology design; gait variability and its role in health and functional performance; application of biomechanical principles to optimize sports techniques; integration of technology for real-time movement analysis and feedback

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue explores the role of symmetry and asymmetry in biomechanics and gait mechanics, focusing on their impact across health, human movement, and performance optimization. Symmetry often represents balance and efficiency, while asymmetries can reflect strategic adaptations, physical demands, or biomechanical constraints. Investigating these factors contributes to advancements in understanding functional dynamics, improving health outcomes, and optimizing performance in sports, rehabilitation, and assistive technology design. By bridging health sciences, sports, and engineering, this Issue provides a comprehensive perspective on symmetry and asymmetry in biomechanical applications.

Prof. Dr. Bianca Callegari
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • biomechanics
  • gait mechanics
  • symmetry
  • asymmetry
  • health
  • human movement
  • performance optimization
  • rehabilitation
  • assistive technologies
  • sports science

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Research

24 pages, 2447 KiB  
Article
Pilot Study: Effects of High-Intensity Training on Gait Symmetry and Locomotor Performance in Neurodivergent Children
by Noah D. Chernik, Melody W. Young, Reuben N. Jacobson, Stratos J. Kantounis, Samantha K. Lynch, James Q. Virga, Matthew J. Cannata, Hannah M. English, Pranav Krish, Anand Kanumuru, Alexander Lopez and Michael C. Granatosky
Symmetry 2025, 17(7), 1073; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17071073 - 6 Jul 2025
Abstract
Neuromuscular gait deficits in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are often overlooked. High-intensity training protocols may improve running performance, but their efficacy in pediatric populations is underexplored. This study evaluates the impact of a high-intensity running protocol on locomotor performance in neurotypical [...] Read more.
Neuromuscular gait deficits in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are often overlooked. High-intensity training protocols may improve running performance, but their efficacy in pediatric populations is underexplored. This study evaluates the impact of a high-intensity running protocol on locomotor performance in neurotypical and neurodivergent children (children with ASD). Spatiotemporal gait characteristics (speed, stride frequency, stride length, and duty factor), gait symmetry (symmetry ratio), and kinematics were assessed for ten neurodivergent children (10–15 years old) during a 15 m sprint. Locomotor costs (cost of locomotion, transport, and locomotion per stride) were analyzed in six neurodivergent participants (11–14 years old) via open-flow respirometry during treadmill running. Participants completed a 5–12 week, twice-weekly program; neurotypical participants served as a control group. Neurodivergent and neurotypical children exhibited baseline differences in spatiotemporal variables. Following training, neurodivergent participants demonstrated statistically significant improvements in spatiotemporal metrics and locomotor costs. Differences in symmetry between the two groups were not present pre- or post-program. These findings highlight the efficacy of high-intensity running programs in improving sensorimotor function and coordination in children with ASD. This program provides valuable insights into gross motor rehabilitation for neurodivergent children, supporting its potential as an effective intervention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Symmetry and Asymmetry in Biomechanics and Gait Mechanics)
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