Computerized optimization of sports motions: an overview of possibilities, methods and recent developments

With the rapid development of efficient computer hardware and the availability of sophisticated software packages, the computerized optimization of sports motions has become a viable proposition. Methods already in use make possible the determination of an athlete's segmental, muscular and articular parameter values which define his biomechanical profile. These subject-specific data are fed into a general computer program which permits the simulation of any sports motion. In particular, and in combination with appropriate optimization software, the optimal form of a specific motion can be found for the athlete under consideration.