OVERVIEW

In recent years, the analysis of human movement in sport and exercise has become increasingly important for optimizing athletic performance, preventing injuries, supporting rehabilitation, and promoting safe and effective physical activity across diverse populations. The availability of advanced biomechanical measurement systems, motion analysis technologies, and computational modeling tools makes it crucial for bioengineers to acquire solid theoretical foundations and practical skills in this multidisciplinary field. This course introduces the scientific principles and practical applications of biomechanics in sports, integrating musculoskeletal biomechanics, ergonomics, movement science, and neuromuscular function. Students will learn how mechanical loads, joint kinematics, muscle activations, and motor control influence sports performance and injury risk. The course combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience in experimental techniques widely used in sports biomechanics.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The teaching unit aims to provide knowledge of experimental methods as well as analytical and numerical techniques for the study of human movement, with particular focus on sports activities. A specific objective is to equip the biomedical engineering student with the ability to analyze simple motor tasks through the integration of models and measurements. Elements of ergonomics will also be introduced.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to provide students with advanced knowledge and practical skills for biomechanical analysis of human movement applied to sports and exercise. Laboratory and field-based activities will support the theoretical lectures, allowing students to directly use motion analysis technologies.

At the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Analyze sports movements from kinematic, dynamic, and energetic perspectives;
• Acquire, process, and interpret muscle activity data during specific sports actions;
• Apply biomechanical measurement systems to characterize movement execution, contributing to injury prevention and performance optimization;
• Use advanced modeling and simulation tools (e.g., OpenSim) for the analysis of sports movements.

PREREQUISITES

Knowledge of biomechanics and informatics

TEACHING METHODS

The course includes interactive lectures and laboratory sessions. A combination of theoretical background and applied projects is used, with emphasis on case studies and group work. Students will be divided into small groups and will engage in hands-on computer-based tasks throughout the semester. 

Students who hold valid certificates relating to Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD), disabilities or other educational needs are invited to contact the lecturer and the school’s disability liaison officer at the start of the course to agree on any teaching arrangements which, whilst respecting the course objectives, take into account individual learning styles. 

The contact details for the university’s disability liaison officer are available at the following link: https://unige.it/commissioni/comitatoperlinclusionedeglistudenticondisabilita.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Fundamentals of Biomechanics in Sports

• Introduction to biomechanics and its role in sports and exercise
• Overview of the musculoskeletal system
• Concepts of posture, kinematics, dynamics, and energetics of movement

Motion Analysis Techniques for sport

• Methods for capturing and analyzing human movement
• Use of motion capture systems, force plates, and inertial sensors
• Data processing and interpretation of kinematic and kinetic variables

Muscle Activity and Neuromuscular Function during sport activity

• Principles of electromyography (EMG)
• Muscle activation patterns during athletic performance
• Experimental protocols and data interpretation

Biomechanical Assessment and Performance Optimization

• Biomechanical characterization of sports exercises
• Injury prevention through movement analysis
• Ergonomic and performance-related implications for amateur, professional, and para-athletes

Modeling and Simulation of sport gestures

• Introduction to biomechanical modeling tools (e.g., OpenSim)
• Creating and using musculoskeletal models
• Simulating and analyzing sports gestures to support performance enhancement and rehabilitation strategies

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Specific indications on reference bibliography will be provided by the professor at the beginning of the lectures.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

CAMILLA PIERELLA (President)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Classes will start according to the official academic calendar of the study program

https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/index.php?view=easycourse&_lang=it&include=corso

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The final assessment consists of an oral examination on the theoretical topics covered throughout the course and a project-based discussion related to the laboratory work and data analysis performed by each student or group.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Assessment will be based on both the final oral exam and the laboratory activities. Each component will be evaluated for completeness, originality, and quality, according to a shared and transparent grading rubric. Evaluation criteria include mastery of content, analytical skills, clarity of presentation, and innovation in data analysis or project development.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Ask the professor for other information not included in the teaching schedule.

Students with valid certifications for Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) may request accommodations for exams at least 7 days prior to the exam date by filling out the “accommodation request form” (available via online services at https://modulionline.unige.it/richiesta-adattamenti# no-back), which will be automatically forwarded by the system to the instructor in charge of the course and to the faculty liaison for students with disabilities and SLDs in their School/Department. 

The student will receive a copy of their request.