Why? The Science of Athletics

CHAPTER XVIII MECHANICS AND LEVERAGE Athletic Effort Comprises Initial Departure from Equilibrium -Levers Explained-Mechanics of Starting-Reaction Time-Physical Aspects of Overcoming Inertia-Factors - Determining Running Efficiency-How Leverage Reacts in Running-Style Synonymous with Mechanics-Propelling Force Provides Mechanical Key to Speed-Mechanics Solve Problem of Stride Length-Mechanics Applied to Field Events-Power is Basis of Imparted Energy-Some Points for Consideration. AMONG the ·many things which but few athletes under– stand about themselves is the system of levers and the processes of their use which make first-class athletic achievement possible_. The human levers may be classified under three headings. The Class I levers correlate Effort-Fulcrum– Resistance, as in the case of spade-digging or in the action of a pump handle. In Class II the order is Effort-Resist– ance-Fulcrum, as in the case of the wheelbarrow and of shifting objects by the use of a crowbar ; while in Class Ill · the sequence becomes Fulcrum-Effort-Resistance, as in the case of the knife-grinder treadling his machine, or as in the action of a pair of sugar tongs. Equilibrium, of course, enters into the matter, since it equals effort-times-distance-from-fulcrum, or resistance– times-distance-from-fulcrum. All athletic effort is composed of an Athletic Effort initial departure from equilibrium, which Comprises postulates a great effort to overcome resist- Initial ance. Thereafter there is an oscillation of Departurefrom alternate contraction and relaxation of Equilibrium opposing groups of muscles acting on body levers. To obtain the optimum (i.e. perfect style) as distinct 20 T