Non-Anticipating Movement

Biomechanics of unplanned movements in sport

Athletes play sports in a highly complex and dynamic environment. Not only do they have to keep a constant eye on their playing equipment, opponents and teammates, they also have to react to them in fractions of a second and choose the right action from a wide range of options. However, diagnostics and athletic training do not usually reflect this complex reality: the majority of tests and exercises do not include a significant perception and reaction component.

Our studies are developing tests and training procedures that better simulate significant situations typical of sport (e.g. changes of direction, cutting movements, jump landings). We want to find out whether this allows us to make more precise statements about an athlete's risk of injury and what role reactive decision-making ability plays in athletic performance. To answer these questions, we use marker-based camera systems and force plates as well as digital applications such as animation, videos and virtual reality.