Biomechanics: Angular Motion

Introduction to Angular Motion

Angular motion refers to the movement of a body about a fixed point or axis.
It is also known as rotational motion.

Types of Angular Motion

There are two types of angular motion: spin and revolution.
Spin is when a body revolves around its own axis, like a spinning top.
Revolution is when a body moves around an external axis, as a planet does around the sun.

Variables of Angular Motion

Key variables in angular motion include angle, angular displacement, angular speed, angular velocity, and angular acceleration.
Angle is a measurement of rotation or turning and is stated in angular units (degrees or radians).
Angular displacement is the change in the angle as an object moves in circular path. It is a vector quantity, which includes the direction of motion.
Angular speed tells us how quickly the object is moving around the circle without considering the direction.
Angular velocity is a measure of the rate of change of angle with respect to time in a specific direction.
Angular acceleration refers to the rate of change of angular velocity.

Angular Kinematics

Angular kinematics concerns the description of angular motion in terms of angular distance, velocity and acceleration without considering the forces.
For example, in high jump, the rotation of the body in the air is an example of angular motion.

Calculation of Angular Motion

Calculation of angular motion involves the following:
- Angular velocity = Angular displacement / Time
- Angular acceleration = (Final angular velocity – Initial angular velocity) / Time

Importance of Understanding Angular Motion

Grasping the concept of angular motion assists in understanding and enhancing performance in sports that involve spinning, such as figure skating or gymnastics.
It is also vital in sports that involve throwing for distance. For example, discus or hammer throwers need to create maximum angular velocity to achieve greater distances.

Review above points to strengthen your understanding of angular motion in biomechanics, to be able to apply it effectively to physical activities and sports.