|
Biomechanical
Principles to be Investigated
Linear kinetics and angular
kinetics – how forces affect the state of motion of objects
Purpose
During the off-season, baseball and softball players should partake
in a rigorous resistance training program which incorporates strength and
power exercises for the total body. A
batter who can effectively swing (i.e., avoid swinging late) a longer,
top-heavy bat will be able to impart a greater force to a ball.
Why? This lab will
investigate the linear and angular kinetic effect select bats exert on a
baseball or softball thrown under controlled conditions (i.e., a pitching
machine, negligible wind conditions, excellent daylight conditions).
Rationale
A linear and angular kinetic analysis of a baseball or softball bat swing
and the associated flight path of the ball involves the study of the
forces responsible for setting the bat in motion; identification of the
mass of the ball and its contact velocity; identification of the location
on the bat where the ball is contacted; identification of the mass of the
bat and how its mass is distributed about its axis of rotation;
identification of where, with respect to the center of mass of the ball,
the bat imparts force. A linear and angular kinetic analysis of a baseball
or softball bat swing provides coaches and sports medicine specialists,
etc. with information on identification of proper bat selection for each
type of ball player (i.e., power vs. location type hitter).
References
Kreighbaum, E. &
Barthels, K.M. (1996). Biomechanics
(4th ed.). Boston:
Allyn and Bacon.
Dempsey,
C.W. (1998). NCAA Memorandum: Baseball
Bat Safety. Overland
Park, KA: The National Collegiate Athletic Association. |
