Weeks 2 and 3

Introduction

Now that we have an understanding of the importance of studying kinesiology, it is time to get started. We will begin with the study of how the body moves by learning about the parts of the body involved in movement. In this module we will investigate the following topics:

  

Anatomical Terminology for Orientation and Movement
We begin by learning the terms that allow exercise scientists to describe anatomic locations, directions and motions in a clear and concise manner.

Skeletal Anatomy
We will be oriented to the structures in the skeleton that are involved in motion. Our focus will be on the trunk and extremities as these regions are involved in athletic movement. In addition we will learn about joints and how they move.

Muscular Anatomy
In order to assess motion we will need to become familiar with the muscles involved in athletic motion. We will learn about how a muscle contracts and the names of the large muscles for the various regions of the body.

Neuromuscular Coordination
Since skeletal muscles are controlled by the nervous system we should spend some time learning about how the functions of the nervous and muscular systems are related.

How is the book organized?
The Hamilton and Luttgens text is arranged by general topic. The three topic areas are:

  • Part 1: Anatomical and Physiological Fundamentals of Human Motion
  • Part II: Fundamentals of Biomechanics
  • Part III: Motor Skills: Principles and Applications
  • Appendices

Each topic area is divided into chapters covering the individual sections of the topic. The chapters provide objectives, detailed information on the topic under study with supporting diagrams tables and pictures and laboratory learning questions to reinforce the material covered in the chapter.

Let’s get started!