RESEARCH

We use published research data in addition to our own measurements with scientific equipment to create the animations. Muscle Animations originated from the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences. Therefore, we use biomechanical measurement methods and programs, developed over many years, to ensure evidence-based knowledge about strength training exercises.
Muscle activation in an exercise will often be highly dependent on technical execution. For this reason, it is absolutely essential for us to animate the movements with correct movement technique. For complex exercises, we therefore use marker-based 3D analysis to model segment movements with high accuracy.

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BASED ON 3D ANALYSIS

We use a high-speed system with 16 infrared cameras that register the position of 30-50 markers (depending on the exercise). Based on these marker paths, we can calculate the movement of each individual segment of the body, and thus animate these movements with high accuracy, using proprietary software. See the video for a more detailed explanation of how the 3D analysis is performed.

Traditionally, electromyography (EMG) is used to investigate muscle activation in strength training exercises. EMG analyses can be useful, but we must be cautious as there are many potential sources of error and challenges in interpreting such results. It is important to be aware that a deeper understanding of strength training exercises requires biomechanical analyses of external forces and moments. This insight is not gained by using EMG alone. However, EMG can provide valuable additional information in comparing muscle activation between exercises or techniques.

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To understand how different strength exercises load the musculoskeletal system, we must perform a basic mechanical analysis of external forces acting on the system. An external force will generate a moment around a joint. These external joint moments are countered by internal joint moments, usually generated by muscles. For this reason, an analysis of external forces and moment arms will provide a good understanding of muscle use around a joint.

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We can measure external forces via various measurement tools. In a biomechanical lab, for example, there will be force platforms mounted in the floor. These measure reaction forces from the floor with very high accuracy. By combining 3D motion analysis with force measurements, it is possible to calculate net joint moments with high accuracy. In the example below, we measured movement, muscle activation as well as external forces and moments in male powerlifters. The lifts were done with classic execution, with elastic band, and with squat suit and knee wraps.