A jump forwards with mathematics and physics

We jump on human body motions such as bouncing on a jumping stick, hopping, and making kangaroo jumps. Students can record the movements with a digital camera and use their video clips to investigate the motions with suitable video analysis and modelling software. We discuss some
mathematical models of these motions using basic biomechanical principles and we compare modelling results with experimental data obtained from video measurements. Highlight is the application of the model of a planar inverted spring-­‐mass system: this rather simple model works
qualitatively and quantitatively well for the complex motions of hopping, skipping and running at
moderate speeds. The examples of video analysis and modelling activities give a good impression of
the potential of the subject of human gait for student practical investigations and as a context for applied mathematics and physics at secondary and undergraduate level.