Biomechanical Analysis of Sports Movements (Video)

Biomechanical analysis of simple sports skills recorded in slow motion on tablets: students identify phases, angles and contact points with a worksheet and suggest improvements. Students build technical understanding, critical thinking and responsible use of technology.

How to play

1. Explain the phases of a skill (preparation, execution and follow-through) and what to look for: knee angle, trunk position, contact points and direction of force (4 min).
2. Make groups of 3–4 with one tablet and worksheet; each group picks a skill that can be done in the classroom, such as a vertical jump, a foam ball throw or a squat (2 min).
3. Record in slow motion, from the side at 10–12 feet, with permission from the person being recorded: three attempts each (6 min).
4. Analyze with the worksheet: pause the video at each phase, estimate angles and note what went well and what didn't (8 min).
5. Each student picks one specific fix, practices it and gets recorded again (6 min).
6. Compare before and after videos and delete them in front of the teacher (4 min).

Rules

• Record only people who give permission, and never anyone outside the activity.
• Videos are not shared outside class and are deleted at the end.
• Feedback is about technique and constructive, never about anyone's body.
• Perform skills in a clear area of the room, away from desks and chairs.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: serve as the group's lead analyst or analyze a skill adapted to their abilities.
• Shyness: choose to be recorded only by their own group, or work with a model video instead of their own.
• Not enough tablets: use direct observation with the worksheet while a partner freezes the position at each phase.

Learning goals

• Analyze the technique of a sports skill by its phases.
• Suggest technical improvements based on observation.
• Use technology responsibly and respect privacy.

Equipment for a class of 25

• tablets: 7
• analysis worksheets: 25

Teacher tip

Check before class that the tablets have slow motion and are charged. Have students delete videos in front of you, and notify families if your school requires it.

More main activities for High School