Biomechanics Exercise Physiology

This module introduces students to the physics of human and animal movement. The Lagrangian approach will be used to describe the macroscopic motion of humans in terms of bones connected by joints with applied torques and forces. A simple neural network model will then be employed to define an appropriate mechanism of control needed to achieve movements such as walking. Basic principles for the description of elastic solids and fluids will also be studied, where the fluid equations of motion will be used to describe the physics of flight and blood flow in arteries. The Exercise Physiology component will focus on the theme of 'where physics meet physiology' in health, physical performance and ageing. Students will be taught the key concepts and mechanisms that regulate physiological functions in health, performance and ageing. Special emphasis will be given the appreciation of the physical laws underlying physiological functions e.g., gas pressures, diffusion and transport in pulmonary physiology, the Frank-Starling mechanism in cardiac output, the Laplace law in blood flow and distribution, concept of physical work and calorimetry in metabolism, and force production in muscle contraction.