Sports biomechanics is a scientific discipline that uses mechanical methods and concepts to study sports-related movements and can be divided into performance biomechanics, anthropometric biomechanics, and preventive biomechanics 4. Performance biomechanics is directly related to the analysis of the technique of the movements in order to identify and evaluate the main variables involved, and to allow individual diagnosis related to important flaws (technique versus motor control) registered in the movement². According to Winter³ and Baumann4, the usual methods to measure biomechanic quantitative parameters are based on kinemetry, electromyography, dynamometry and the anthropometrics. The aim of this work was to perform quantitative and qualitative evaluations of biomechanic parameters related to swimming and athletics, based on kinemetry. The results showed a number of imperfections for correctly executing the technique related to a movement (this was most pronounced for throwing and swimming). These data can now be used by coaches looking for new means of adjusting their techniques in order to correct possible imperfections.
Biomechanics; Paralympic sports; Kinemetry; Qualitative analysis; Quantitative analysis
