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Creating Force And Force: An Analysis Of The Biodex Machine

comparative Essay
1171 words
1171 words
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Physical activities require a degree of human strength. Such measurements of strength take on the form of maximum voluntary torque at a particular joint and are dependent on joint position and velocity (Anderson et al., 2007). Key concepts to be discussed in this lab are those primarily concerned with torque, angular velocity, and force. In particular, the Biodex machine maintains a constant angular velocity, so torque and muscular force by the participant are maximized at every point in the range of motion. This is reflective of isokinetic muscle testing. Keep in mind that strength is primarily the production of force, and force is the product of mass and acceleration. (Lawler, 2018). Creating force is essential in every form of exercise, which is why it is included in this study’s analysis of muscle torque. Therefore, torque is defined as a force that is applied to an object, normally perpendicularly to a lever, so that it causes rotation (T=F⫠ × d_(axis of rotation)) (Lawler, 2018). As we will see in this lab, the dynamometer facilitates joint rotation through knee flexion and extension so that torque of the muscle overcomes torque of the resistance- a necessary occurrence for muscular concentric contractions (Lawler, …show more content…

In this essay, the author

  • Explains how the biodex machine maintains a constant angular velocity, so torque and muscular force by the participant are maximized at every point in the range of motion.
  • Compares the anatomical characteristics of each participant's leg, including their resistance arm, force arm and thigh width.
  • Explains that dynamometers are commonly used to assess the muscle and joint functioning of patients or athletes.
  • Describes how the biodex machine was used to analyze the strength of the knee extensor muscle group and its relation to force and torque production.

Participants were asked to be seated in the Biodex machine as alterations to the machinery were made to accommodate the person’s lower leg length. In particular, a ruler located alongside the lower leg was adjusted to reflect the length in centimeters of the participant’s lower leg (resistance arm). Also, the backside of the seat was adjusted so that the back of the knee lay comfortably against the edge of the seat. Two trials were conducted: the extensor muscle group was studied at a 60°/s and 120°/s rate. As data collection began, the participant forcefully extended and flexed their

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