The Department of Biomechanics and Performance Analysis was established on 1 January 2006 to develop an integrating approach to the observation and analysis of performance in training and competition environments. This approach draws upon the distinctiveness of disciplined Biomechanics’ insights and the emerging methodologies and theoretical insights offered by Performance Analysis.

Members of the Department work with AIS coaches in a range of projects that includes summer and winter Olympic and Paralympic sports, development sports and programs for young athletes in professional sports.

Biomechanics was a founding discipline of the AIS in 1981. Biomechanics is the study of forces and the effects of those forces on and within the human body. Whenever a force is applied to the body, biomechanics can analyse and interpret its cause and effect. AIS Biomechanists are involved in the observation, measurement and analysis of training and competition performance and use their expertise to support athlete development.

The refurbishment of AIS facilities has provided additional facilities for biomechanists to analyse performance. These facilities include a new multi-purpose indoor testing facility with a five-lane 100 metre indoor track.

A Performance Analysis Unit was established at the AIS in 2002 to provide a focus for the use of information and communications technology by coaches to develop athlete performance in training and competition environments. One of the key features of performance analysis is its integration of disciplined insights into learning and performance. These insights range from the 'expert' observations a coach makes to those that sports scientists, sports medicine practitioners and physical therapists provide.  

Those interested in developing the application of performance analysis in training and competition environments share the following characteristics. They:

• make a permanent record of performance
• observe in a systematic way
• record and then analyse selected aspects of performance
• provide quantitative and qualitative information.

Coaches use this process to compile objective and reliable observations of performance that can then be used to develop performance and promote learning.

In 2006 the Analytics Unit was added to the department to enable new directions in data mining, game analysis, and performance modeling.  The Analytics Unit also works closely with other groups at the Institute to provide a high level of mathematical and computing expertise.  Examples  of this work include the ATRAX data management system, the Pattern Plotter game analysis system, and sophisticated modeling of speed and power in cycling.   

The AIS Biomechanics and Performance Analysis Department has a key role to play in the Institute of Sport's quest for excellence. Its formation highlights the dynamic nature of working with coaches and athletes in technologically rich environments.

Further details on the practices of the Biomechanics and Performance Analysis Department and how AIS and Australian athletes benefit from the work in this field can be found throughout this website.  Select one of the links above to learn about the various facets of the AIS Biomechanics and Performance Analysis Department.

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