Clinical Biomechanics Spring 2022

Problem #1, 10 points Due March 31

F
A

C E
G
H

E
A

B D F
H

C G
C
C
The graph above shows the vertical position and velocity of the proximal tibia while performing
a jump-land-jump movement. Jump-land-jump movements involve jumping a specified distance
(for example, 50% of individual’s height) off a low plyometric box, landing on two feet, and
then immediately performing a maximal horizontal distance jump in a specified direction (for
example, a 60º to the left or right). We use this movement to test ACL injury risk factors and to
assess ankle/knee brace designs. Point A: individual jumps off of plyometric box. Point B: peak
height of plyometric box jump. Point C: initial foot contact with ground for plyometric box
jump. Point D: the individual is at lowest point of flexed knee landing. Point E: individual leaves
the ground for the maximal distance horizontal jump. Point F: peak height of horizontal jump.
Point G: initial foot contact for horizontal jump landing. Point H: final standing posture.
1. Between what time points is this individual’s tibia moving in a positive vertical direction?
A. Between points A-B
B. Between points B-C
C. Between points C-D
D. Between points F-G

2. Between what time points is this individual’s tibia speed increasing?

A. Between points A-B
B. Between points B-C
C. Between points C-D
D. Between points E-F

3. Between what time points is this individual’s tibia speed decreasing?

A. Between points B-C
B. Between points C-D
C. Between points D-E
D. Between points F-G

4. Between what time points is this individual’s tibia acceleration negative?

A. Between points A-B
B. Between points C-D
C. Between points D-E
D. Between points G-H

5. Between what time points is this individual’s tibia acceleration approximately equal to
gravity?
A. Between points C-D
B. Between points D-E
C. Between points F-G
D. Between points G-H
Usain Bolt set a world record time of 9.58 s in the 100 m run during the 2009 World
Championships in Berlin. Usain's approximate distances during the second half of the race are
shown in the table below. Using the first central difference method, calculate his running
velocities and accelerations.

Time Distance Velocity Acceleration

(s) (m) (m/s) (m/s2)
5.0 44.3
6.0 56.5
7.0 68.8
8.0 81.0
9.0 93.0

6. What was Usain Bolt’s velocity at time = 6.0 s?

7. What was Usain Bolt’s velocity at time = 7.0 s?

8. What was Usain Bolt’s velocity at time = 8.0 s?

9. What was Usain Bolt’s acceleration at time = 7.0 s?

10. What was Usain Bolt’s acceleration at time = 8.0 s?