Jennifer Wilson 1*, John Kiely 2 1 University of Derby, College of Life & Natural Sciences: Sport, Outdoor & Exercise Science, Derby, United Kingdom 2 University of Central Lancashire, Institute of Coaching & Performance, School of Sport, Tourism and the Outdoors, Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom
Article (PDF Available) in Human Movement 17(1):15-21 · June 2016
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The unique architecture of the foot system provides a sensitive, multi-tensional method of communicating with the surrounding environment. Within the premise of the paper, we discuss three themes: complexity, degeneracy and bio-tensegrity. Complex structures within the foot allow the human movement system to negotiate strategies for dynamic movement during athletic endeavours. We discuss such complex structures with particular attention to properties of a bio-tensegrity system. Degeneracy within the foot structure offers a distinctive solution to the problems posed by differing terrains and uneven surfaces allowing lower extremity structures to overcome perturbation as and when it occurs. This extraordinary structure offers a significant contribution to bipedalism through presenting a robust base of support and as such, should be given more consideration when designing athletic development programmes.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/304569936_The_Multi-Functional_Foot_in_Athletic_Movement_Extraordinary_Feats_by_Our_Ext[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]