Kinetic Chains in Athletic Functionality
Kinetic chain is also another term that is used to refer to the performance of the musculoskeletal system in sports. Instead of individual muscles acting independently, it is usually a system of working bodies, termed as kinetic chain. It refers to multiple joints and associated muscles acting together in order to power movements such as throwing, sprinting, or jumping. Sprinting: Power from the Bottom Up In the sprinting biomechanical study from the International Journal of Sports Science (2024), investigators calculated that 45% of sprinting speed is due to the proper activation of the kinetic chain from the ground up-the hips, knees, and ankles. So, proper timing of muscle activations from the bottom up is critical for maximum speed. Throwing Sports: Energy Transfer in Action Overhead and horizontal throwing sports, such as cricket and baseball, make extensive use of upper body kinetic chains. According to a 2024 report in the Journal of Sports Biomechanics, more than 60% of the forces that provide throwing velocity are obtained from the kinetic transfer initiated from the legs, followed through by the torso and concluded by the arm and wrist. Jumping: Optimizing Vertical Power According to Sports Biomechanics Reviews, research reveals that athletic activity like basketball and volleyball could be accomplished with a proper kinetic chain between the legs and the core in a jump. With synchronization between the legs and the core, it is possible to increase a difference of 12 to 15% in vertical jump height. In case there is no synchronization, then there is the probability of losing some energy in the athlete, which eventually leads to poor performance in activities. Injury Prevention Through Kinetic Chains One of the major reasons for injury prevention is an understanding of training the kinetic chain. Poor coordination between these muscle groups leads to overuse injuries; according to the Sports Injury Epidemiology Journal, knee and ankle injuries will represent 40% of sports injuries by 2024. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
