IB Sports, exercise and health science B.2.3 Movement Analysis and Its Applications Key Definitions

A continuous skill is a repetitive movement that has no clear beginning or end. It's a cycle of movements that are repeated over and over again. Examples of continuous skills include running, cycling, and swimming

The critical instant phase is the moment of contact or release of a movement, such as when a ball is struck in tennis or when a diver loses contact with the water. It's a crucial phase that determines the effectiveness of a skill.

A discrete skill is a single action with a clear beginning and end. It can be repeated, but the performer must start from the beginning.

Follow-Through Phase refers to the final stage of a movement or action, where the body gradually decelerates and returns to a stable position after completing the primary action, essentially allowing for a smooth transition to the next movement or rest; it is the "finishing" part of the motion, like the controlled landing after a jump or the wrist flick at the end of a basketball shot.

Force Production Phase refers to the specific moment during a movement where muscles actively generate the most force, essentially the phase where the body is actively pushing against an external resistance to create movement, whether it be in a jump, throw, or sprint; it involves the coordinated contraction of muscles to produce the necessary force for the desired action.

A systematic approach to breaking down complex movements into distinct stages, allowing for detailed analysis and improvement of athletic performance.

A preparatory phase is a period of time when you prepare for something by planning, gathering resources, and taking steps to ensure a smooth transition.