Joanna Scurr - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Joanna Scurr

Research paper thumbnail of Breast support implications for larger-breasted females during vertical jumping

Considerable multi-planar breast movement has been reported during jumping, yet the effect of bre... more Considerable multi-planar breast movement has been reported during jumping, yet the effect of breast support on landing kinematics and kinetics during vertical jumping has not been investigated. Preliminary research has suggested alterations in running kinematics and kinetics can occur as a result of differing magnitudes of breast movement. Examining relationships between breast movement and the vertical jump landing strategy will increase our understanding of the breast support implications for larger-breasted athletes during sport and exercise. The aim was to assess relationships between multi-planar breast kinematics and landing strategy during vertical jumping.Twelve larger-breasted (UK breast cup sizes D to E) active females (mean (SD): age 24 (4) years, height 1.66 (0.07) m, body mass 69.58 (12.26) kg) completed six maximum effort non-consecutive two-footed vertical countermovement jumps in an everyday bra (low support) and a sports bra (high support) on a force platform (1000...

Research paper thumbnail of Review: the scientific literature available on roller hockey

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis of roller hockey match play

Journal of Human Movement Studies, 1997

Research paper thumbnail of Player position, match half and score effects on the time and motion characteristics of roller hockey match play

Journal of Human Movement Studies, 1997

Research paper thumbnail of Estimating non-linear strains in the breast during exercise

The static and dynamic strain of the breast mass of four participants were measured while standin... more The static and dynamic strain of the breast mass of four participants were measured while standing and running using a five-camera passive marker system running at 200 Hz. When stationary, the static downward strain of the breast increased with breast size and decreased with use of an everyday bra. Plots of force-strain on the breast mass during motion showed a clear non-linearities above 40% strain in agreement with previous studies on skin and tissue. The peak forces during motion increased with breast mass and were reduced by the wearing of a bra, and in particular a sports bra. The relationship between bra condition and peak strain during motion was less clear.

Research paper thumbnail of Breast education for schoolgirls; why, what, when, and how?

The breast journal, Jan 15, 2017

Schools are fundamental settings for health education and adolescent females are an important gro... more Schools are fundamental settings for health education and adolescent females are an important group for promoting positive breast habits. We surveyed 2089 schoolgirls (11-18 years) to provide evidence for, and guidance on, breast education for schoolgirls. 26% reported negative feelings about their breasts and 87% reported ≥ one breast concern. 72% wanted to know more about breast cancer (69% rating this extremely important). >50% wanted to know more about breast sag and breast pain. Preferred delivery format was age eleven (50%), girls only taught sessions (41%) with female teachers (43%). A need for breast education and delivery preferences was identified.

Research paper thumbnail of Quantification of gravity-induced skin strain across the breast surface

Clinical biomechanics (Bristol, Avon), Jan 3, 2017

Quantification of the magnitude of skin strain in different regions of the breast may help to est... more Quantification of the magnitude of skin strain in different regions of the breast may help to estimate possible gravity-induced damage whilst also being able to inform the selection of incision locations during breast surgery. The aim of this study was to quantify static skin strain over the breast surface and to estimate the risk of skin damage caused by gravitational loading. Fourteen participants had 21 markers applied to their torso and left breast. The non-gravity breast position was estimated as the mid-point of the breast positions in water and soybean oil (higher and lower density than breast respectively). The static gravity-loaded breast position was also measured. Skin strain was calculated as the percentage extension between adjacent breast markers in the gravity and non-gravity loaded conditions. Gravity induced breast deformation caused peak strains ranging from 14 to 75% across participants, with potentially damaging skin strain (>60%) in one participant and skin s...

Research paper thumbnail of Estimating the gravity induced three dimensional deformation of the breast

Journal of Biomechanics, 2016

As human breast tissue is continuously deformed by gravity, it is difficult to identify the nonlo... more As human breast tissue is continuously deformed by gravity, it is difficult to identify the nonloaded neutral breast position from which to take measurements. To estimate the neutral nipple position, this study proposed a simple novel method to counteract the three dimensional effect of gravity on the breast using the buoyant forces from water and soybean oil (ρ WATER = 994 kg.m-3 ; ρ OIL = 909 kg.m-3). Fourteen female participants with breast 2 sizes ranging from 30 to 34 inch under band and B to E cup size took part in this study. Each participant had their static gravity-loaded nipple position measured and their neutral nipple position estimated (as the midpoint between the nipple position during water and soybean oil immersion). Participants were asked to sit in each fluid and fully submerge their torso and breasts. The mean gravity-induced nipple displacements from the neutral nipple position were 15.3 mm in the posterior direction, 7.4 mm in the lateral direction, and 25.7 mm in the inferior direction. Gravity had a significant (p < 0.05, r > 0.82) measurable effect on the static nipple position, particularly in the inferior and posterior directions. Furthermore the density difference between water and soybean oil produced a significant difference (p < 0.05, r = 0.72) in superior-inferior nipple position (5.6 mm). These findings suggest that neglect of gravity-induced breast deformations may lead to errors when assessing breast position and its relationship to possible breast pain, and that water alone may not be sufficient to estimate the neutral nipple position.

Research paper thumbnail of Estimating Breast Mass-Density: A Retrospective Analysis of Radiological Data

Research paper thumbnail of Do women with smaller breasts perform better in long-distance running?

European journal of sport science, 2016

Literature has established that a range of physiological, biomechanical, and training variables i... more Literature has established that a range of physiological, biomechanical, and training variables influence marathon performance. The influence of anthropometric characteristics has also received attention. However, despite major marathons exceeding 40,000 participants and approximately a third of these runners being female, no data exist on the influence of the breast on running performance. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the impact of breast mass on marathon finish time. One hundred and sixty-eight of 321 female marathon runners contacted completed an on-line survey focusing on marathon performance during the 2012 London marathon. Participants were categorised as smaller (<500 g, 54%) or larger breasted (>500 g, 46%). Regression analysis identified that 24% of marathon performance variance could be explained by body mass index (BMI), but breast mass improved the model to explain 28% of performance variation. The model determined that for women with 32/34 or 36/38 ...

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of muscle action, load and velocity variation on the bilateral neuromuscular response

The purpose of this study w as to assess the neuromuscular asymmetry of the medial and lateral ga... more The purpose of this study w as to assess the neuromuscular asymmetry of the medial and lateral gastrocnemius (MG, LG) and soleus (SOL) of the dominant and non-dominant limbs during different muscle actions via electromyography (EMG). Fifteen active male participants completed isometric and isotonic (maximum, submaximum, bodyweight), isokinetic (1.05 rad•s-1 , 1.31 rad•s-1 , and 1.83 rad•s-1), squat jump, and 20 m sprint conditions on the same day. Bilateral asymmetry was only observed in the isokinetic (6.8% to 10.8%) and the squat jump (6.0% to 15.5%) conditions for the SOL, MG, and LG (P=0.05). No relationship was found between magnitude of bilateral asymmetry and load levels. Isometric max (0.4% to 4.2%) and isometric bodyweight conditions (0.6% to 4.2%) showed the lowest bilateral asymmetry ranges across all muscles. Understanding of bilateral asymmetry induced by different muscle actions is important to prevent muscle imbalance and to understand the potential mechanisms of muscular recruitment in tasks.

Research paper thumbnail of Understanding key performance indicators for breast support: An analysis of breast support effects on biomechanical, physiological and subjective measures during running

Journal of sports sciences, Jan 13, 2016

To assess the effectiveness of breast support previous studies monitored breast kinematics and ki... more To assess the effectiveness of breast support previous studies monitored breast kinematics and kinetics, subjective feedback, muscle activity (EMG), ground reaction forces (GRFs) and physiological measures in isolation. Comparing these variables within one study will establish the key performance variables that distinguish between breast supports during activities such as running. This study investigates the effects of changes in breast support on biomechanical, physiological and subjective measures during running. Ten females (34D) ran for 10 min in high and low breast supports, and for 2 min bare breasted (2.8 m·s(-1)). Breast and body kinematics, EMG, expired air and heart rate were recorded. GRFs were recorded during 10 m overground runs (2.8 m·s(-1)) and subjective feedback obtained after each condition. Of the 62 variables measured, 22 kinematic and subjective variables were influenced by changes in breast support. Willingness to exercise, time lag and superio-inferior breast ...

Research paper thumbnail of Perceived Exertion is Related to Muscle Activity During Leg Extension Exercise

Research in Sports Medicine, 2006

This study examined the relationship between ratings of perceived exertion and muscle activity du... more This study examined the relationship between ratings of perceived exertion and muscle activity during dynamic leg extension exercise using a resistance exercise specific OMNI-RPE scale. Twenty volunteers (10 males, 10 females, age 22.2 +/- 3.1 yr) performed one set of leg extension exercise at 30%, 60%, and 90% of their one-repetition maximum (1-RM). OMNI-RPE responses were assessed for both the active muscle (OMNI-AM) and the overall body (OMNI-O) following each intensity. Electromyography (EMG) data were collected from the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis muscles. A two-factor repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant OMNI-RPE (region) X intensity interaction (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01). Both OMNI-AM and OMNI-O increased with exercise intensity, and RPE-AM was higher than RPE-O at all intensities. EMG activity increased with exercise intensity in all muscle groups (all p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01). Muscle activity was significantly and positively related to OMNI-RPE in both the active muscle and overall body (all p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01). The OMNI-Res RPE scale may be a promising technique for regulating resistance training intensity.

Research paper thumbnail of The effect of breast support on kinetics during overground running performance

Ergonomics, 2009

Changes in ground reaction forces that result from different breast support conditions may have i... more Changes in ground reaction forces that result from different breast support conditions may have implications for sports performance and transmission of forces through the skeleton. The aim of this investigation was to compare kinetic variables and breast motion in a no-bra, everyday-bra and two sports-bra conditions. Following ethical approval, eight female participants with D-cup breasts had retro-reflective markers placed on the left and right nipples, anterior superior iliac spines and clavicles. Five calibrated ProReflex infra-red cameras (100 Hz; Qualisys) measured 3-D displacement of markers and synchronised kinetic data were collected using a force platform (500 Hz, Kistler 9281CA). A repeated measures one-way ANOVA revealed a significantly higher medial impact force in the no-bra condition (0.15 times body weight) compared with the compression sports-bra condition (0.12 times body weight) (F = 3.64 (3,21), p = 0.03). Findings suggest that inadequate breast support affects a female&#39;s running kinetics, which may have negative physiological consequences on sports performance.

Research paper thumbnail of Measurement of Breast Motion Across the Breast Surface Leads to Better Recommendations for Breast Support

Quantifying multiplanar range of motion (ROM) of multiple markers positioned on the breast surfac... more Quantifying multiplanar range of motion (ROM) of multiple markers positioned on the breast surface may improve methodologies in breast biomechanics and inform bra design. Nineteen markers were positioned on the breast of 24 females. During running, the nipple marker underwent the greatest ROM of all markers on the breast. Significant differences were reported in multiplanar ROM between the nipple marker and 17 markers within the breast marker array. Furthermore, the distribution of multiplanar ROM differed across the 19 markers positioned on the breast, with the most dominant direction reported as superioinferior. It was proposed that the nipple marker is a good representative of breast motion; however the marker array may provide a more holistic approach to informing sports bra design.

Research paper thumbnail of The effects of approach angle on penalty kicking accuracy and kick kinematics with recreational soccer players

Journal of Sports Science Medicine, 2009

Kicking accuracy is an important component of successful penalty kicks, which may be influenced b... more Kicking accuracy is an important component of successful penalty kicks, which may be influenced by the approach angle. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of approach angle on kicking accuracy and three-dimensional kinematics of penalty kicks. Seven male amateur recreational soccer players aged (mean ± s) 26 ± 3 years, body mass 74.0 ± 6.8 kg, stature 1.74 ± 0.06 m, who were right foot dominant, kicked penalties at a 0.6 x 0.6 m target in a full size goal from their selfselected approach angle, 30º, 45º and 60º (direction of the kick was 0º). Kicking accuracy and three-dimensional kinematics were recorded. Results revealed that there was no significant difference in kicking accuracy (p = 0.27) or ball velocity (p = 0.59) between the approach angles. Pelvic rotation was significantly greater under the 45º and the 60º approach angles than during the self-selected approach angle (p < 0.05). Thigh abduction of the kicking leg at impact using the 60º approach angle was significantly greater than during the self-selected approach (p = 0.01) and the 30º approach (p = 0.04). It was concluded that altering an individual's self-selected approach angle at recreational level did not improve kicking accuracy or ball velocity, despite altering aspects of underlying technique.

Research paper thumbnail of The effects of approach angle on penalty kicking accuracy and kick kinematics with recreational soccer players

Journal of sports science & medicine, 2009

Kicking accuracy is an important component of successful penalty kicks, which may be influenced b... more Kicking accuracy is an important component of successful penalty kicks, which may be influenced by the approach angle. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of approach angle on kicking accuracy and three-dimensional kinematics of penalty kicks. Seven male amateur recreational soccer players aged (mean ± s) 26 ± 3 years, body mass 74.0 ± 6.8 kg, stature 1.74 ± 0.06 m, who were right foot dominant, kicked penalties at a 0.6 x 0.6 m target in a full size goal from their self-selected approach angle, 30°, 45° and 60° (direction of the kick was 0°). Kicking accuracy and three-dimensional kinematics were recorded. Results revealed that there was no significant difference in kicking accuracy (p = 0.27) or ball velocity (p = 0.59) between the approach angles. Pelvic rotation was significantly greater under the 45° and the 60° approach angles than during the self-selected approach angle (p < 0.05). Thigh abduction of the kicking leg at impact using the 60° approach angle w...

Research paper thumbnail of The Influence of the Breast on Sport and Exercise Participation in School Girls in the United Kingdom

The Journal of adolescent health : official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine, 2016

Emerging evidence suggests that breasts may be a barrier to physical activity for adult females. ... more Emerging evidence suggests that breasts may be a barrier to physical activity for adult females. With only 12% of the UK 14-year-old girls achieving exercise guidelines, to understand deterrents to exercise in this population, we should consider whether breasts may also influence sport and exercise participation in school girls. This survey-based study investigated the influence of the breast on sport and exercise participation and breast-specific concerns in the UK school girls. A survey was developed to assess demographics, breast characteristics, breast-specific concerns in sports, breast knowledge, views on breast education, and sport participation. Chi-squared tests assessed associations between participation and breast size, sports bra use, and breast concerns. Two thousand eighty-nine school girls aged 11-18 years completed the survey, for 97 their breasts had begun developing and 96% reported wearing breast support. Forty-six percent of girls reported that their breasts had ...

Research paper thumbnail of Acute changes in clinical breast measurements following bra removal: Implications for surgical practice

Journal of Plastic Reconstructive Aesthetic Surgery, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of A comparison of three-dimensional breast displacement and breast comfort during overground and treadmill running

Journal of Applied Biomechanics, Feb 1, 2011

Comparisons of breast support requirements during overground and treadmill running have yet to be... more Comparisons of breast support requirements during overground and treadmill running have yet to be explored. The purpose of this study was to investigate 3D breast displacement and breast comfort during overground and treadmill running. Six female D cup participants had retro-reflective markers placed on the nipples, anterior superior iliac spines and clavicles. Five ProReflex infrared cameras (100 Hz) measured 3D marker displacement in four breast support conditions. For overground running, participants completed 5 running trials (3.1 m/s ± 0.1 m/s) over a 10 m indoor runway; for treadmill running, speed was steadily increased to 3.1 m/s and 5 gait cycles were analyzed. Subjective feedback on breast discomfort was collected using a visual analog scale. Running modality had no significant effect on breast displacement (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; .05). Moderate correlations (r = .45 to .68, p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; .05) were found between breast discomfort and displacement. Stride length (m) and frequency (Hz) did not differ (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; .05) between breast support conditions or running modalities. Findings suggest that breast motion studies that examine treadmill running are applicable to overground running.

Research paper thumbnail of Breast support implications for larger-breasted females during vertical jumping

Considerable multi-planar breast movement has been reported during jumping, yet the effect of bre... more Considerable multi-planar breast movement has been reported during jumping, yet the effect of breast support on landing kinematics and kinetics during vertical jumping has not been investigated. Preliminary research has suggested alterations in running kinematics and kinetics can occur as a result of differing magnitudes of breast movement. Examining relationships between breast movement and the vertical jump landing strategy will increase our understanding of the breast support implications for larger-breasted athletes during sport and exercise. The aim was to assess relationships between multi-planar breast kinematics and landing strategy during vertical jumping.Twelve larger-breasted (UK breast cup sizes D to E) active females (mean (SD): age 24 (4) years, height 1.66 (0.07) m, body mass 69.58 (12.26) kg) completed six maximum effort non-consecutive two-footed vertical countermovement jumps in an everyday bra (low support) and a sports bra (high support) on a force platform (1000...

Research paper thumbnail of Review: the scientific literature available on roller hockey

Research paper thumbnail of Analysis of roller hockey match play

Journal of Human Movement Studies, 1997

Research paper thumbnail of Player position, match half and score effects on the time and motion characteristics of roller hockey match play

Journal of Human Movement Studies, 1997

Research paper thumbnail of Estimating non-linear strains in the breast during exercise

The static and dynamic strain of the breast mass of four participants were measured while standin... more The static and dynamic strain of the breast mass of four participants were measured while standing and running using a five-camera passive marker system running at 200 Hz. When stationary, the static downward strain of the breast increased with breast size and decreased with use of an everyday bra. Plots of force-strain on the breast mass during motion showed a clear non-linearities above 40% strain in agreement with previous studies on skin and tissue. The peak forces during motion increased with breast mass and were reduced by the wearing of a bra, and in particular a sports bra. The relationship between bra condition and peak strain during motion was less clear.

Research paper thumbnail of Breast education for schoolgirls; why, what, when, and how?

The breast journal, Jan 15, 2017

Schools are fundamental settings for health education and adolescent females are an important gro... more Schools are fundamental settings for health education and adolescent females are an important group for promoting positive breast habits. We surveyed 2089 schoolgirls (11-18 years) to provide evidence for, and guidance on, breast education for schoolgirls. 26% reported negative feelings about their breasts and 87% reported ≥ one breast concern. 72% wanted to know more about breast cancer (69% rating this extremely important). >50% wanted to know more about breast sag and breast pain. Preferred delivery format was age eleven (50%), girls only taught sessions (41%) with female teachers (43%). A need for breast education and delivery preferences was identified.

Research paper thumbnail of Quantification of gravity-induced skin strain across the breast surface

Clinical biomechanics (Bristol, Avon), Jan 3, 2017

Quantification of the magnitude of skin strain in different regions of the breast may help to est... more Quantification of the magnitude of skin strain in different regions of the breast may help to estimate possible gravity-induced damage whilst also being able to inform the selection of incision locations during breast surgery. The aim of this study was to quantify static skin strain over the breast surface and to estimate the risk of skin damage caused by gravitational loading. Fourteen participants had 21 markers applied to their torso and left breast. The non-gravity breast position was estimated as the mid-point of the breast positions in water and soybean oil (higher and lower density than breast respectively). The static gravity-loaded breast position was also measured. Skin strain was calculated as the percentage extension between adjacent breast markers in the gravity and non-gravity loaded conditions. Gravity induced breast deformation caused peak strains ranging from 14 to 75% across participants, with potentially damaging skin strain (>60%) in one participant and skin s...

Research paper thumbnail of Estimating the gravity induced three dimensional deformation of the breast

Journal of Biomechanics, 2016

As human breast tissue is continuously deformed by gravity, it is difficult to identify the nonlo... more As human breast tissue is continuously deformed by gravity, it is difficult to identify the nonloaded neutral breast position from which to take measurements. To estimate the neutral nipple position, this study proposed a simple novel method to counteract the three dimensional effect of gravity on the breast using the buoyant forces from water and soybean oil (ρ WATER = 994 kg.m-3 ; ρ OIL = 909 kg.m-3). Fourteen female participants with breast 2 sizes ranging from 30 to 34 inch under band and B to E cup size took part in this study. Each participant had their static gravity-loaded nipple position measured and their neutral nipple position estimated (as the midpoint between the nipple position during water and soybean oil immersion). Participants were asked to sit in each fluid and fully submerge their torso and breasts. The mean gravity-induced nipple displacements from the neutral nipple position were 15.3 mm in the posterior direction, 7.4 mm in the lateral direction, and 25.7 mm in the inferior direction. Gravity had a significant (p < 0.05, r > 0.82) measurable effect on the static nipple position, particularly in the inferior and posterior directions. Furthermore the density difference between water and soybean oil produced a significant difference (p < 0.05, r = 0.72) in superior-inferior nipple position (5.6 mm). These findings suggest that neglect of gravity-induced breast deformations may lead to errors when assessing breast position and its relationship to possible breast pain, and that water alone may not be sufficient to estimate the neutral nipple position.

Research paper thumbnail of Estimating Breast Mass-Density: A Retrospective Analysis of Radiological Data

Research paper thumbnail of Do women with smaller breasts perform better in long-distance running?

European journal of sport science, 2016

Literature has established that a range of physiological, biomechanical, and training variables i... more Literature has established that a range of physiological, biomechanical, and training variables influence marathon performance. The influence of anthropometric characteristics has also received attention. However, despite major marathons exceeding 40,000 participants and approximately a third of these runners being female, no data exist on the influence of the breast on running performance. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the impact of breast mass on marathon finish time. One hundred and sixty-eight of 321 female marathon runners contacted completed an on-line survey focusing on marathon performance during the 2012 London marathon. Participants were categorised as smaller (<500 g, 54%) or larger breasted (>500 g, 46%). Regression analysis identified that 24% of marathon performance variance could be explained by body mass index (BMI), but breast mass improved the model to explain 28% of performance variation. The model determined that for women with 32/34 or 36/38 ...

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of muscle action, load and velocity variation on the bilateral neuromuscular response

The purpose of this study w as to assess the neuromuscular asymmetry of the medial and lateral ga... more The purpose of this study w as to assess the neuromuscular asymmetry of the medial and lateral gastrocnemius (MG, LG) and soleus (SOL) of the dominant and non-dominant limbs during different muscle actions via electromyography (EMG). Fifteen active male participants completed isometric and isotonic (maximum, submaximum, bodyweight), isokinetic (1.05 rad•s-1 , 1.31 rad•s-1 , and 1.83 rad•s-1), squat jump, and 20 m sprint conditions on the same day. Bilateral asymmetry was only observed in the isokinetic (6.8% to 10.8%) and the squat jump (6.0% to 15.5%) conditions for the SOL, MG, and LG (P=0.05). No relationship was found between magnitude of bilateral asymmetry and load levels. Isometric max (0.4% to 4.2%) and isometric bodyweight conditions (0.6% to 4.2%) showed the lowest bilateral asymmetry ranges across all muscles. Understanding of bilateral asymmetry induced by different muscle actions is important to prevent muscle imbalance and to understand the potential mechanisms of muscular recruitment in tasks.

Research paper thumbnail of Understanding key performance indicators for breast support: An analysis of breast support effects on biomechanical, physiological and subjective measures during running

Journal of sports sciences, Jan 13, 2016

To assess the effectiveness of breast support previous studies monitored breast kinematics and ki... more To assess the effectiveness of breast support previous studies monitored breast kinematics and kinetics, subjective feedback, muscle activity (EMG), ground reaction forces (GRFs) and physiological measures in isolation. Comparing these variables within one study will establish the key performance variables that distinguish between breast supports during activities such as running. This study investigates the effects of changes in breast support on biomechanical, physiological and subjective measures during running. Ten females (34D) ran for 10 min in high and low breast supports, and for 2 min bare breasted (2.8 m·s(-1)). Breast and body kinematics, EMG, expired air and heart rate were recorded. GRFs were recorded during 10 m overground runs (2.8 m·s(-1)) and subjective feedback obtained after each condition. Of the 62 variables measured, 22 kinematic and subjective variables were influenced by changes in breast support. Willingness to exercise, time lag and superio-inferior breast ...

Research paper thumbnail of Perceived Exertion is Related to Muscle Activity During Leg Extension Exercise

Research in Sports Medicine, 2006

This study examined the relationship between ratings of perceived exertion and muscle activity du... more This study examined the relationship between ratings of perceived exertion and muscle activity during dynamic leg extension exercise using a resistance exercise specific OMNI-RPE scale. Twenty volunteers (10 males, 10 females, age 22.2 +/- 3.1 yr) performed one set of leg extension exercise at 30%, 60%, and 90% of their one-repetition maximum (1-RM). OMNI-RPE responses were assessed for both the active muscle (OMNI-AM) and the overall body (OMNI-O) following each intensity. Electromyography (EMG) data were collected from the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis muscles. A two-factor repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant OMNI-RPE (region) X intensity interaction (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01). Both OMNI-AM and OMNI-O increased with exercise intensity, and RPE-AM was higher than RPE-O at all intensities. EMG activity increased with exercise intensity in all muscle groups (all p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01). Muscle activity was significantly and positively related to OMNI-RPE in both the active muscle and overall body (all p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.01). The OMNI-Res RPE scale may be a promising technique for regulating resistance training intensity.

Research paper thumbnail of The effect of breast support on kinetics during overground running performance

Ergonomics, 2009

Changes in ground reaction forces that result from different breast support conditions may have i... more Changes in ground reaction forces that result from different breast support conditions may have implications for sports performance and transmission of forces through the skeleton. The aim of this investigation was to compare kinetic variables and breast motion in a no-bra, everyday-bra and two sports-bra conditions. Following ethical approval, eight female participants with D-cup breasts had retro-reflective markers placed on the left and right nipples, anterior superior iliac spines and clavicles. Five calibrated ProReflex infra-red cameras (100 Hz; Qualisys) measured 3-D displacement of markers and synchronised kinetic data were collected using a force platform (500 Hz, Kistler 9281CA). A repeated measures one-way ANOVA revealed a significantly higher medial impact force in the no-bra condition (0.15 times body weight) compared with the compression sports-bra condition (0.12 times body weight) (F = 3.64 (3,21), p = 0.03). Findings suggest that inadequate breast support affects a female&#39;s running kinetics, which may have negative physiological consequences on sports performance.

Research paper thumbnail of Measurement of Breast Motion Across the Breast Surface Leads to Better Recommendations for Breast Support

Quantifying multiplanar range of motion (ROM) of multiple markers positioned on the breast surfac... more Quantifying multiplanar range of motion (ROM) of multiple markers positioned on the breast surface may improve methodologies in breast biomechanics and inform bra design. Nineteen markers were positioned on the breast of 24 females. During running, the nipple marker underwent the greatest ROM of all markers on the breast. Significant differences were reported in multiplanar ROM between the nipple marker and 17 markers within the breast marker array. Furthermore, the distribution of multiplanar ROM differed across the 19 markers positioned on the breast, with the most dominant direction reported as superioinferior. It was proposed that the nipple marker is a good representative of breast motion; however the marker array may provide a more holistic approach to informing sports bra design.

Research paper thumbnail of The effects of approach angle on penalty kicking accuracy and kick kinematics with recreational soccer players

Journal of Sports Science Medicine, 2009

Kicking accuracy is an important component of successful penalty kicks, which may be influenced b... more Kicking accuracy is an important component of successful penalty kicks, which may be influenced by the approach angle. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of approach angle on kicking accuracy and three-dimensional kinematics of penalty kicks. Seven male amateur recreational soccer players aged (mean ± s) 26 ± 3 years, body mass 74.0 ± 6.8 kg, stature 1.74 ± 0.06 m, who were right foot dominant, kicked penalties at a 0.6 x 0.6 m target in a full size goal from their selfselected approach angle, 30º, 45º and 60º (direction of the kick was 0º). Kicking accuracy and three-dimensional kinematics were recorded. Results revealed that there was no significant difference in kicking accuracy (p = 0.27) or ball velocity (p = 0.59) between the approach angles. Pelvic rotation was significantly greater under the 45º and the 60º approach angles than during the self-selected approach angle (p < 0.05). Thigh abduction of the kicking leg at impact using the 60º approach angle was significantly greater than during the self-selected approach (p = 0.01) and the 30º approach (p = 0.04). It was concluded that altering an individual's self-selected approach angle at recreational level did not improve kicking accuracy or ball velocity, despite altering aspects of underlying technique.

Research paper thumbnail of The effects of approach angle on penalty kicking accuracy and kick kinematics with recreational soccer players

Journal of sports science & medicine, 2009

Kicking accuracy is an important component of successful penalty kicks, which may be influenced b... more Kicking accuracy is an important component of successful penalty kicks, which may be influenced by the approach angle. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of approach angle on kicking accuracy and three-dimensional kinematics of penalty kicks. Seven male amateur recreational soccer players aged (mean ± s) 26 ± 3 years, body mass 74.0 ± 6.8 kg, stature 1.74 ± 0.06 m, who were right foot dominant, kicked penalties at a 0.6 x 0.6 m target in a full size goal from their self-selected approach angle, 30°, 45° and 60° (direction of the kick was 0°). Kicking accuracy and three-dimensional kinematics were recorded. Results revealed that there was no significant difference in kicking accuracy (p = 0.27) or ball velocity (p = 0.59) between the approach angles. Pelvic rotation was significantly greater under the 45° and the 60° approach angles than during the self-selected approach angle (p < 0.05). Thigh abduction of the kicking leg at impact using the 60° approach angle w...

Research paper thumbnail of The Influence of the Breast on Sport and Exercise Participation in School Girls in the United Kingdom

The Journal of adolescent health : official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine, 2016

Emerging evidence suggests that breasts may be a barrier to physical activity for adult females. ... more Emerging evidence suggests that breasts may be a barrier to physical activity for adult females. With only 12% of the UK 14-year-old girls achieving exercise guidelines, to understand deterrents to exercise in this population, we should consider whether breasts may also influence sport and exercise participation in school girls. This survey-based study investigated the influence of the breast on sport and exercise participation and breast-specific concerns in the UK school girls. A survey was developed to assess demographics, breast characteristics, breast-specific concerns in sports, breast knowledge, views on breast education, and sport participation. Chi-squared tests assessed associations between participation and breast size, sports bra use, and breast concerns. Two thousand eighty-nine school girls aged 11-18 years completed the survey, for 97 their breasts had begun developing and 96% reported wearing breast support. Forty-six percent of girls reported that their breasts had ...

Research paper thumbnail of Acute changes in clinical breast measurements following bra removal: Implications for surgical practice

Journal of Plastic Reconstructive Aesthetic Surgery, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of A comparison of three-dimensional breast displacement and breast comfort during overground and treadmill running

Journal of Applied Biomechanics, Feb 1, 2011

Comparisons of breast support requirements during overground and treadmill running have yet to be... more Comparisons of breast support requirements during overground and treadmill running have yet to be explored. The purpose of this study was to investigate 3D breast displacement and breast comfort during overground and treadmill running. Six female D cup participants had retro-reflective markers placed on the nipples, anterior superior iliac spines and clavicles. Five ProReflex infrared cameras (100 Hz) measured 3D marker displacement in four breast support conditions. For overground running, participants completed 5 running trials (3.1 m/s ± 0.1 m/s) over a 10 m indoor runway; for treadmill running, speed was steadily increased to 3.1 m/s and 5 gait cycles were analyzed. Subjective feedback on breast discomfort was collected using a visual analog scale. Running modality had no significant effect on breast displacement (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; .05). Moderate correlations (r = .45 to .68, p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; .05) were found between breast discomfort and displacement. Stride length (m) and frequency (Hz) did not differ (p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; .05) between breast support conditions or running modalities. Findings suggest that breast motion studies that examine treadmill running are applicable to overground running.