Biomechanics is the study of movement, more specifically, the movement (technique) involved in a strength exercise, or in execution of a sports skill. It deals mainly with physical factors such as speed, mass, acceleration, levers, force, and the physical functions of the movement. Some think of biomechanics as the science of movement based on principles derived from physics and anatomy. It explains the “why” and “how” of a movement and strategies to improve it through scientifically-based modifications.
Kinesiology is the study of human motion which deals mainly with the muscles and their functions. It describes movement, which muscles are involved in the movement, and how exactly they are involved. It explores the muscular involvement in strength exercises and sports technique while biomechanics looks at the physical factors involved in the movement.
By applying basic scientific laws it is possible to come up with accurate descriptions not only of what should take place in the exercise, but also the roles that key joint actions and muscles play. By studying the physical characteristics of the human body and the principles of mechanical physics, you will be able to better apply the information to your workouts or to those of your charges. You will have the basis for selecting and using specific exercises and movements to produce the results desired. Biomechanics and, to a limited extent, kinesiology are relatively new to the fitness and sports fields but are very important emerging sciences. They help to determine what exercises a person should do, how the workouts should be conducted, how effective the exercise execution is and if the exercises you use are safe. Biomechanics shows you the way to do exercises most effectively while kinesiology tells you which muscles are involved in the particular actions that take place in the exercise.
