Question 1

What are the three types of lever in the body?

Accepted Answer

The three types of lever are first class, second class, and third class. In a first class lever, the fulcrum is between the effort and the load (e.g., nodding your head). In a second class lever, the load is between the fulcrum and the effort (e.g., standing on tiptoes). In a third class lever, the effort is between the fulcrum and the load (e.g., a bicep curl). Most levers in the human body are third class, which allows for speed and range of motion.

Question 2

How do I remember which plane and axis go together?

Accepted Answer

Remember that the axis is always perpendicular to the plane. For example, the sagittal plane (left-right split) goes with the frontal axis (side-to-side). The frontal plane (front-back split) goes with the sagittal axis (front-to-back). The transverse plane (top-bottom split) goes with the vertical axis (top-to-bottom). A simple trick: think of a spinning wheel – the plane is the wheel's flat surface, and the axis is the rod through its centre.

Question 3

Why are most levers in the body third class?

Accepted Answer

Third class levers have the effort between the fulcrum and the load, which means the load arm is longer than the effort arm. This gives a mechanical disadvantage, meaning you need more force to move the load. However, it allows for a greater range of motion and speed at the end of the lever. This is beneficial for activities like throwing, kicking, or sprinting, where speed is more important than force.

Question 4

What is the difference between mechanical advantage and disadvantage?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical advantage occurs when the effort arm is longer than the load arm, meaning less effort is needed to move a heavy load (e.g., a wheelbarrow or standing on tiptoes). Mechanical disadvantage occurs when the load arm is longer than the effort arm, requiring more effort but allowing faster, larger movements (e.g., a bicep curl). In the body, most levers are at a mechanical disadvantage to prioritise speed.

Question 5

Can you give an example of a movement in each plane?

Accepted Answer

Sure! Sagittal plane: running, bicep curls, or a forward roll (flexion and extension). Frontal plane: a cartwheel, side lunges, or star jumps (abduction and adduction). Transverse plane: a golf swing, a discus throw, or a pirouette (rotation). Remember, each movement occurs around an axis perpendicular to its plane.

Question 6

How do I answer exam questions on movement analysis?

Accepted Answer

First, identify the lever class by locating the fulcrum, effort, and load. Draw a diagram if needed. Then, state the mechanical advantage or disadvantage and explain why it's beneficial for the sport. For planes and axes, name the plane and axis, and describe the movement. Use correct terminology like 'flexion' or 'rotation'. Always link your answer to the specific sporting example given in the question.

Movement analysis

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

Ready to test yourself?

Related Topics in OCR GCSE Physical Education

Aerobic and anaerobic exercise

Applied anatomy and physiology

Applying the principles of training

Characteristics of skilful movement

How to Revise Movement analysis — OCR GCSE Physical Education

Examiner Tips for Movement analysis

Key Marking Points