THP113 Applied Biomechanics for Strength Training (Spring 2027)

Biomechanical analysis is the key to understanding how strength exercises load the musculoskeletal system. Such analyses are the foundation for providing appropriate technique feedback and identifying and tailoring optimal exercises to enhance performance, reduce risk of injury, and optimizing rehabilitation after injury.

In this digital course we will introduce a standardized and simple approach to analyze exercises, based on fundamental principles from classic mechanics. However, in contrast to typical biomechanical courses, we will not focus on calculations but rather utilize 3D-animations to visualize muscle activation, external forces and moment arms. This approach has proved to be effective for professionals who do not necessarily have a strong background in math and physics.

The course is suitable for students in sport and exercise science, physiotherapy, trainers/coaches, health personnel, and others who need an in-depth understanding of strength training exercises.

The student should, after completing the course, be able to:

• Identify key biomechanical concepts such as force, torque, moment arm, centre of mass/centre of gravity, base of support, friction and moment balance, and use these concepts to describe strength training exercises.
• Explain the relationship between external and internal moments and use external moment arms to infer likely muscle loading in selected strength exercises.
• Apply a systematic biomechanical analysis method to describe and compare loading profiles in different strength exercises and exercise executions.
• Analyze how changes in technique, anthropometrics or equipment affect loading, performance aims and possible injury risk in strength training exercises.
• Describe exercise technique recommendations, using biomechanical reasoning.
• Select and adapt strength exercises for different goals and prerequisites and justify the choices using biomechanical reasoning.
• Evaluate common assumptions, myths and research claims about strength exercises using biomechanical principles and relevant research evidence.

• Interactive lectures on basic biomechanical principles, including step-by-step analysis of strength training exercises.
• Exercise modules on shoulders/arms, chest/back, legs and core exercises
• 3D animations of exercises visualizing forces, moment arms and muscle activation. Drawing tasks, quizzes and interactive 3D-model tasks.
• Critical reflection on research studies through case assignments.

The final home exam consists of two parts:

• multiple-choice exam. Pass/fail
• submission of a short video presentation. Pass/fail

Exams in WISEflow will be checked for plagiarism.