Blackbox FLIPBOOK FINAL

HTKSPORT
Viscoelasticity is the way in which the internal tissues of our body create movement.
In liquids, the same property is measured in viscosity (thickness) – for example honey
is more viscous than water because it resists deformation more. Viscoelasticity acts as
a ‘damper’ (i.e. such as would be placed on a stiff car spring to modify the rate of
elastic return). It is a time-dependent way of regulating elastic ‘spring-back’. The
internal tissues of the human body rely on this to change from one movement to
another.
If biotensegrity is the basis of the architecture of our collagen matrix, then it also has
elastic integrity when we are still. We do not deflate. The body benefits from the value
of elasticity just as much when sitting as when running; peak performance and peak
‘pre-formance’ are both animated by the same system.
Without a doubt, there is a wealth of knowledge in this area, far beyond the basics
presented in this book, in the work of Müller and Schleip; particularly the book Fascia
in Sport and Movement. I encourage all readers to explore their work. This manual will
attempt to sum some of the overarching principles, but for far greater depth please
explore their work in this area.
1.2 Utilising Force Optimally
Applying the tensegrity model of architectural structures to the human body
demonstrates that when forces are introduced at one point in a structure, they are
simultaneously transmitted to other parts of the same structure. During almost all
movement patterns, it's not just the immediate muscles that are involved; rather, a
wide network of different muscles will contribute and share in the force production,
and most importantly – force absorption (see more below).
The speed at which the athlete moves is determined by how much of the force
generated by the movement of the body – predominantly kinetic energy – is utilised
to explosively propel them forward. Part of that is contributed by biomechanics and
movement technique. However, the majority is determined by the elasticity and
engagement of the body’s fascia network, and its ability to transmit and transfer force
efficiently.
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JUNE 2018 | ISSUE 01