Centre of Mass:
What is Centre of Mass?
The centre of mass (COM) is the theoretical point in a body where all of its mass appears to be concentrated. Think of it as the average location of all the weight in an object or person. It's the point around which a body would balance perfectly if suspended.
In a uniform object with regular shape (like a ruler or a ball), the centre of mass is located at its geometric centre. However, in the human body, it's more complex!
Key Characteristics
- Location in the Human Body
- In a standing person, the COM is typically located:
- Just in front of the second sacral vertebra (S2)
- Approximately 55-57% of total height from the ground
- Slightly above the hips
- This location isn't fixed and changes with movement
- In a standing person, the COM is typically located:
- Dynamic Nature
- The COM shifts as you move different body parts
- Changes with different positions and postures
- Varies between individuals based on their body composition