Performance scientist, Dr. Loren Chiu, uses a theory-based approach to working with athletes, working to understand their biomechanics, physiology and anatomy as individuals to tailor a strength and conditioning program that will help them achieve the results they need.

1. The Performance Sciences Approach to Athletic Enhancement Loren Z.F. Chiu, PhD, CSCS Neuromusculoskeletal Mechanics Research Program University of Alberta

2. What is Performance Sciences? Integration of disciplines Anatomy Biomechanics Physiology Application of scientific reasoning and knowledge to enhance performance

3. Performance Sciences Program Anthropometric, biomechanical and physiological assessments of physical fitness Strength and conditioning training to enhance physical fitness Practice drives innovation

4. Why Strength & Conditioning? Develop muscular fitness Enhance neuromuscular coordination Modulate range of motion Address anatomical limitations

5. Approaches to Strength & Conditioning Bodybuilding Rehabilitation/physiotherapy Evidence-based Scientific Theory-based

6. Vertical Jump Range of motion Maximum strength Explosive strength Neuromuscular coordination

7. Range of Motion

8. Range of Motion Ankle dorsiflexion Achilles tendon flexibility? Excess calcaneal motion Hip extension Psoas major Rectus femoris Hip internal & external rotation Piriformis Gluteus medius/Gluteus minimis/Tensor fascia latae Adductors Iliofemoral ligament

9. Maximum Strength 1” increase in VJ = 20% increase muscular strength Baseline strength 5 RM Squat = 60% body mass E.G. BM: 68kg, 5 RM = 41kg Increased squat strength 20% - 49kg/5 (1” increase VJ) 40% - 58kg/5 (2” increase VJ) 60% - 66kg/5 (3” increase VJ)

10. Explosive Strength Intra-muscular coordination Motor unit recruitment (heavy resistance) Motor unit firing frequency (rate of force development) Inter-muscular coordination Untrained – proximal-to-distal activation Hip extensors  knee extensors  ankle plantar-flexors Trained – simultaneous activation Rapid transition from eccentric to concentric