Research Area Neurophysiology of Exercise

Research into movement variability and into the coordinative structure of movement patterns has gained momentum in recent years as the significance of these aspects of human movement for important functional characteristics, such as motor learning, balance and stability, situation adaptability, or coping with pathologies become more and more apparent.

Our research group investigates sensorimotor integration. We analyze movement variability; the coordinative structure of movement patterns (PCA; “principal movements”); how muscles are activated and how muscle activation is coordinated between muscles (EMG, muscle synergies); and we monitor brain activity (EEG) to link phenomena in the EEG with aspects of movement control.

One focus of our group is postural control research. The ability to accurately control one’s movements and posture is relevant in all stages of life. It’s one of the first things an infant learns and it determines to a large extend health, independence, and quality of life in old age. In sports, balance is highly relevant for performance and for injury prevention. It seems obvious that postural control is related to the coordination of the movements of different segments, however, how exactly does this coordinative structure manifest itself? Is better balance associated with faster, stronger, or better coordinated reaction to perturbations? What exactly changes in the movement characteristics during balance training? Do movement patterns differ between stable and unstable or between young and old subjects? How does fatigue affect balance and coordination? - Our group develops and applies methods examining covariation in segment kinematics to approach questions about balance and coordination from a new angle.

A second research focus is technique analysis in sports. The technique of an athlete is the specific coordinative whole-body movement pattern that the athletes exhibit in standard situations of their sport. On the one hand, the technique of an athlete depends on highly specific factors such as the specific body shape, motor learning history, and abilities of the individual athlete; on the other hand, there are common features in the techniques of athletes that allow an experienced coach to characterize, evaluate, and even suggest improvements to the specific techniques of athletes. Scientifically it is challenging how the techniques of different athletes can objectively be compared and how suggestions for improvements can be derived. We quantify the underlying coordinative structure of movements to quantify and compare the techniques between groups of athletes.

Calisti Maité, MSc

Keywords: Injury prevention, return to sport, ACL

Debertin Daniel, MSc

Keywords: Technique analysis, motion capture, principal movements

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Federolf Peter

Keywords: Motion analysis, neuromuscular control, system dynamics, stability, technique analysis in sport

Ass. Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Heinrich Dieter

Keywords: Computational biomechanics, (neuro)musculoskeletal modelling, performance optimization

Dr. Jaén Diego

Keywords: Biomechanics, motor control, gait and running

Ass. Prof. Mohr Maurice, PhD

Keywords: Muscle activation, postural control, balance training, knee injury biomechanics

Felix Wachholz, PhD

Keywords: Digitalization in sport, e-sport, motor control, movement variability

Ass. Prof. Dr. Werner Inge

Keywords: Postural control, sensorimotor feedback, movement variability, internal-external focus

Publications 2023

Contributions to Books / Journals

Journal Article (Original Paper)

Heinrich, D; van den Bogert, AJ; Nachbauer, W (online first): Predicting neuromuscular control patterns that minimize ACL forces during injury prone jump landing maneuvers in downhill skiing using a musculoskeletal simulation model.
In: European Journal of Sport Science . (DOI) (Web link)
Mössner, M; Schindelwig, K; Heinrich, D; Hasler, M; Nachbauer, W (2023): Effect of load, ski and snow properties on apparent contact area and pressure distribution in straight gliding.
In: Cold Regions Science And Technology 208, Nr. 103799. (DOI) (Web link)
Strassburger, C; Wachholz, F; Peters, M; Schnitzer, M; Blank, C (online first): Organizational leisure benefits – a resource to facilitate employees’ work-life balance?
In: Employee Relations - the international journal. (DOI) (Web link)
Strassburger, C; Wachholz, F; Peters, M; Schnitzer, M; Blank, C (online first): Organizational leisure benefits: a neglected signaling device in hospitality job advertisements?
In: Journal of Human Resources in Hospitality & Tourism. (DOI) (Web link)
van Andel, S; Schmidt, AR; Federolf, P (2023): Distinct coordination patterns integrate exploratory head movements with whole-body movement patterns during walking.
In: Scientific Reports 13/1, Nr. 1235. (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Review)

Werner, I; Federolf, P (2023): Focus of Attention in Coach Instructions for Technique Training in Sports: A Scrutinized Review of Review Studies.
In: Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology 8/1. (DOI)

Journal Article (Other)

Dorschky, E; Camomilla, V; Davis, J; Federolf, P; Reenalda, J; Koelewijn, A (2023): Perspective on “in the wild” movement analysis using machine learning.
In: Human Movement Science 87, p. 103042. (DOI)
Dorschky, E; Camomilla, V; Davis, J; Federolf, P; Reenalda, J; Koelewijn, AD (2023): Perspective on "in the wild" movement analysis using machine learning.
In: Human Movement Science 87, No. 103042. (DOI) (Web link)
Werner, I; Federolf, P; Valero-Cuevas, F (2023): Mountain Hiking: Prolonged Eccentric Muscle Contraction during Simulated Downhill Walking Perturbs Sensorimotor.
In: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. (DOI)

Proceedings Article (Abstract)

Zwölfer, M; Heinrich, D; Wandt, B; Rhodin, H; Spörri, J; Nachbauer, W (2023): A Graph-Based Approach To Improve Keypoint Detection For The Description Of Injury Situations On The Example Of Alpine Ski Racing.
In: Stöggl, T; Wiesinger, H-P; Dirnberger, J: Abstract Book of the 9th International Congress on Science and Skiing. Salzburg: Universität Salzburg., p. 27.

Publications 2022

Contributions to Books / Journals

Journal Article (Original Paper)

Debertin, D; Wachholz, F; Mikut, R; Federolf, P (2022): Quantitative downhill skiing technique analysis according to ski instruction curricula: A proof-of-concept study applying principal component analysis on wearable sensor data.
In: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology 10, No. 1003619. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Heinrich, D; Van den Bogert, AJ; Nachbauer, W (2022): Estimation of Joint Moments During Turning Maneuvers in Alpine Skiing Using a Three Dimensional Musculoskeletal Skier Model and a Forward Dynamics Optimization Framework.
In: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology 10, No. 894568. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2022): Fatigue-related reductions in movement smoothness during a lateral shuffle and side-cutting movement.
In: European Journal of Sport Science 22/10, pp. 1522 - 1531. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Mohr, M; von Tscharner, V; Nigg, S; Nigg, B (2022): Systematic reduction of leg muscle activity throughout a standard assessment of running footwear.
In: Journal of Sport and Health Science 11/3, pp. 309 - 318. (DOI) (Web link)
Van Andel, S; Mohr, M; Schmidt, A; Werner, I; Federolf, P (2022): Whole-body movement analysis using principal component analysis: What is the internal consistency between outcomes originating from the same movement simultaneously recorded with different measurement devices?
In: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology 10, No. 1006670. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Werner, I; Peer-Kratzer, M; Mohr, M; van-Andel, S; Federolf, P (2022): Intervention for Better Knee Alignment during Jump Landing: Is There an Effect of Internally vs. Externally Focused Instructions?
In: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 19/17, No. 10763. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Review)

van Andel, S; Pieper, R; Werner, I; Wachholz, F; Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2022): Implications of Optimal Feedback Control Theory for Sport Coaching and Motor Learning, a Systematic Review.
In: Motor Control 26/1, pp. 144 - 167. (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Meeting-Abstract)

van Andel, S; Czekanowicz, L; Restel, A; Riedl, F; Sandner, T; Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2022): ‘Place one footfall on the force platform’ – Influence of targeted stepping on gait characteristics in the 10-m walk test.
In: Gait & Posture 97/Supplement 1, p. S197. (DOI) (Web link)

Proceedings Article (Full Paper)

Mohr, M; Scharbert, J; Heinrich, D; Raschner, C; Koelewijn, A; Federolf, P (2022): Effects of an 8-week knee injury prevention program and technique modification training on change-of-direction performance.
In: Robinson, M; Baltzopoulos, B; Lake, M; Vanrenterghem, J: Proceedings of the 40th Conference of the International Society of Biomechanics in Sports (ISBS). Marquette, Michigan: NMU Commons., Vol. 40, No. 113. (Web link)
Wachholz, F; Spörk, V; Scheiber, S; Schnitzer, M (2022): Are non-profit Sport Clubs ready for Digitalization? A Case Study of Tyrolean Soccer Teams.
In: 2022 IEEE International Workshop on Sport, Technology and Research (STAR). 6-8 July 2022, Cavalese, Italy. Piscataway, NJ: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)., ISBN 978-1-6654-8601-9, pp. 67 - 71. (DOI) (Web link)

Proceedings Article (Abstract)

Busquets, A; Ferrer-Uris, B; Federolf, P; Angulo-Barroso, R (2022): Early development of children’s drop-landing movements coordination.
In: Dela, F; Piacentini, M; Helge, J; Calvo Lluch, Á; Sáez, E; Pareja Blanco, F; Tsolakidis, E: 27th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS) Book of Abstracts. 30th August - 2nd September, 2022, Sevilla. Köln: European College of Sport Science (ECSS)., ISBN 978-3-9818414-5-9, p. 564.
Calisti, M; Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2022): How can we better inform return-to-sport decisions after an ACL injury? – A study outline.
In: Stetter, B; Herzog, M; Spancken, S; Stein, T: Modularität in der motorischen Kontrolle. Tagungsband Jahrestagung der dvs-Sektion Sportmotorik 2022. Karslruhe: Karlsruher Institute of Technology (KIT)., pp. 108 - 109. (DOI) (Web link)
Calisti, M; Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2022): Neuromuscular Control of the Contralateral Leg during Jump Landings Following an ACL Injury.
In: Dela, F; Piacentini, M; Helge, J; Calvo Lluch, Á; Sáez, E; Pareja Blanco, F; Tsolakidis, E: 27th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS) Book of Abstracts. 30th August - 2nd September, 2022, Sevilla. Köln: European College of Sport Science (ECSS)., ISBN 978-3-9818414-5-9, pp. 118 - 119.
Debertin, D; Serafin, I; Federolf, P (2022): Skill acquisition in dynamic movement tasks: Can the freezing strategy be studied through a principal component analysis? – A pilot study.
In: Stetter, B; Herzog, M; Spancken, S; Stein, T: Modularität in der motorischen Kontrolle. Tagungsband Jahrestagung der dvs-Sektion Sportmotorik 2022. Karslruhe: Karlsruher Institute of Technology (KIT)., pp. 106 - 107. (DOI) (Web link)
Federolf, P (2022): Analysing human movement through “principal movements”.
In: Stetter, B; Herzog, M; Spancken, S; Stein, T: Modularität in der motorischen Kontrolle. Tagungsband Jahrestagung der dvs-Sektion Sportmotorik 2022. Karslruhe: Karlsruher Institute of Technology (KIT)., p. 20. (DOI) (Web link)
Heinrich, D; van den Bogert, A.J.; Nachbauer, W (2022): Development of a 3d musculoskeletal simulation model to estimate muscle and knee ligament forces during carved turns in alpine skiing.
In: Arnoux, P; Bailly, N; Escoda,, B; Bruna-Rosso, C; Dorsemaine, M: Book of Abstracts of the Joint Conference 24th International Congress on Snow Sport Trauma and
Safety - 37th Congress of the International Society for Snowsports Medicine. 27st of March to the 2nd of April in Serre-Chevalier Vallée, France. International Society for Skiing Safety.
Mohr, M; Peer, L; Federolf, P (2022): Whole-body motor control adaptations to running on unstable surfaces.
In: Stetter, B; Herzog, M; Spancken, S; Stein, T: Modularität in der motorischen Kontrolle. Tagungsband Jahrestagung der dvs-Sektion Sportmotorik 2022. Karslruhe: Karlsruher Institute of Technology (KIT)., pp. 81 - 83. (DOI) (Web link)
Mössner, M; Ueno, R; Heinrich, D; Schindelwig, K; Nachbauer, W (2022): Lateral heel release reduces ACL load in simulated backward twisting falls.
In: Arnoux, P; Bailly, N; Escoda,, B; Bruna-Rosso, C; Dorsemaine, M: Book of Abstracts of the Joint Conference 24th International Congress on Snow Sport Trauma and
Safety - 37th Congress of the International Society for Snowsports Medicine. 27st of March to the 2nd of April in Serre-Chevalier Vallée, France. International Society for Skiing Safety., p. 64. (Web link)
Reimeir, B; van Andel, S; Federolf, P (2022): The influence of different sensory manipulations on boundary-margins of perceived postural instabilities.
In: Stetter, B; Herzog, M; Spancken, S; Stein, T: Modularität in der motorischen Kontrolle. Tagungsband Jahrestagung der dvs-Sektion Sportmotorik 2022. Karslruhe: Karlsruher Institute of Technology (KIT)., pp. 56 - 57. (DOI) (Web link)
Santos, L; Federolf, P (2022): Judo match exercise intensities in the judo weight divisions.
In: Dela, F; Piacentini, M; Helge, J; Calvo Lluch, Á; Sáez, E; Pareja Blanco, F; Tsolakidis, E: 27th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS) Book of Abstracts. 30th August - 2nd September, 2022, Sevilla. Köln: European College of Sport Science (ECSS)., ISBN 978-3-9818414-5-9, p. 600.
Zwölfer, M; Heinrich, D; Schindelwig, K; Wandt, B; Rhodin, H; Spörri, J; Nachbauer, W (2022): Deep Learning Based 2D Keypoint Detection in Alpine Skiing – A performance Analysis of State-of-the-Art Algorithm.
In: Arnoux, P; Bailly, N; Escoda,, B; Bruna-Rosso, C; Dorsemaine, M: Book of Abstracts of the Joint Conference 24th International Congress on Snow Sport Trauma and
Safety - 37th Congress of the International Society for Snowsports Medicine. 27st of March to the 2nd of April in Serre-Chevalier Vallée, France. International Society for Skiing Safety., p. 60. (Web link)

Publications 2021

(Co-)Edited Books

Anthology / Collected Edition (Editorship)

Zago, M; Federolf, P; Kleiner, AFR (2021): Machine Learning Approaches to Human Movement Analysis. Lausanne: Frontiers Research Foundation (= Frontiers research topics). ISBN 978-2-88966-561-7. (DOI) (Web link)

Contributions to Books / Journals

Journal Article (Original Paper)

Busquets, A; Ferrer-Uris, B; Angulo-Barroso, R; Federolf, P (2021): Gymnastics Experience Enhances the Development of Bipedal-Stance Multi-Segmental Coordination and Control During Proprioceptive Reweighting.
In: Frontiers in Psychology 12, p. 661312. (DOI) (Web link)
Csapo, R; Heinrich, D; Vigotsky, AD; Marx, C; Sinha, S; Fink, C (2021): Developing a Technique for the Imaging-Based Measurement of ACL Elongation: A Proof of Principle.
In: Diagnostics 11/11, No. 2126. (DOI) (Web link)
Heinrich, D; van den Bogert, AJ; Csapo, R; Nachbauer, W (2021): A model-based approach to predict neuromuscular control patterns that minimize ACL forces during jump landing.
In: Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering 24/6, pp. 612 - 622. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Mohr, M; Pieper, R; Löffler, S; Schmidt, AR; Federolf, P (2021): Sex-Specific Hip Movement Is Correlated With Pelvis and Upper Body Rotation During Running.
In: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology 9, Nr. 657357. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Ó'Reilly, D; Federolf, P (2021): Identifying differences in gait adaptability across various speeds using movement synergy analysis.
In: PLoS One 16/1, Nr. e0244582. (DOI) (Web link)
Promsri, A; Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2021): Principal postural acceleration and myoelectric activity: Interrelationship and relevance for characterizing neuromuscular function in postural control.
In: Human Movement Science 77, Nr. 102792. (DOI) (Web link)
Rethwilm, R; Böhm, H; Döderlein, L; Federolf, P; Dussa, CU (2021): The Ability to Run in Young People with Cerebral Palsy before and after Single Event Multi-Level Surgery.
In: Journal of Personalized Medicine 11/7, Nr. 660. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Rethwilm, R; Böhm, H; Haase, M; Perchthaler, D; Dussa, CU; Federolf, P (2021): Dynamic stability in cerebral palsy during walking and running: Predictors and regulation strategies.
In: Gait & Posture 84, pp. 329 - 334. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Werner, I; Szelenczy, N; Wachholz, F; Federolf, P (2021): How Do Movement Patterns in Weightlifting (Clean) Change When Using Lighter or Heavier Barbell Loads? - A Comparison of Two Principal Component Anaysis-Based Approaches to Studying Technique.
In: Frontiers in Psychology 11, No. 606070. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Review)

Modaberi, S; Saemi, E; Federolf, P; van Andel, S (2021): A Systematic Review on Detraining Effects after Balance and Fall Prevention Interventions.
In: Journal of Clinical Medicine 10/20, Nr. 4656. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Other)

Federolf, P; Angulo-Barroso, RM; Busquets, A; Ferrer-Uris, B; Gløersen, Ø; Mohr, M; Ó' Reilly, D; Promsri, A; van Andel, S; Wachholz, F; Werner, I; Zago, M (2021): Letter to the editor regarding "The assessment of center of mass and center of pressure during quiet stance: Current applications and future directions".
In: Journal of Biomechanics 128, No. 110729. (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Editorial)

Zago, M; Kleiner, AFR; Federolf, P (2021): Editorial: Machine Learning Approaches to Human Movement Analysis.
In: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology 8, No. 638793. (DOI) (Web link)

Proceedings Article (Abstract)

Calisti, M; Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2021): Time to stabilization during jump-landing following ACL injury: What about the contralateral leg?
In: Funken, J.; Potthast, W.: Abstractband DGfB Online-Symposium 2021. Köln: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Biomechanik e.V., pp. 24 - 25.
Reimeir, B; van Andel, S; Federolf, P (2021): How does the postural control system determine whether or not it is “in trouble”? The role of Distance-to-Boundary and Time-to-Boundary in detecting postural instability.
In: Funken, J.; Potthast, W.: Abstractband DGfB Online-Symposium 2021. Köln: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Biomechanik e.V., pp. 20 - 21.
van Andel, S; Pieper, R; Werner, I; Wachholz, F; Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2021): Implications of Optimal Feedback Control Theory for Sport Coaching and Motor Learning, a Systematic Review.
In: Dela, F; Helge, J.W; Müller, E; Tsolakidis, E: 26th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS 2021 virtual) Book of Abstracts. 8th-10th September 2021. Köln: European College of Sport Science (ECSS)., ISBN 978-3-9818414-4-2, No. 384. (Web link)

Publications 2020

Contributions to Books / Journals

Journal Article (Original Paper)

Falbriard, M; Mohr, M; Aminian, K (2020): Hurdle Clearance Detection and Spatiotemporal Analysis in 400 Meters Hurdles Races Using Shoe-Mounted Magnetic and Inertial Sensors.
In: Sensors 20/2, No. 354. (DOI) (Web link)
González, L; Argüelles, J; González, V; Winge, K; Iscar, M; Olmedillas, H; Blanco, M; Valenzuela, PL; Lucia, A; Federolf, P; Santos, L (2020): Slackline Training in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
In: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17/22, No. 8649. (DOI) (Web link)
Grünbichler, J; Federolf, P; Gatterer, H (2020): Workload efficiency as a new tool to describe external and internal competitive match load of a professional soccer team: A descriptive study on the relationship between pre-game training loads and relative match load.
In: European Journal of Sport Science 20/8, pp. 1034 - 1041. (DOI) (Web link)
Honert, E; Mohr, M; Lam, W-K; Nigg, S (2020): Shoe feature recommendations for different running levels: A Delphi study.
In: PLoS One 15/7, No. e0236047. (DOI) (Web link)
Nitschke, M; Dorschky, E; Heinrich, D; Schlarb, H; Eskofier, BM; Koelewijn, AD; van den Bogert, AJ (2020): Efficient trajectory optimization for curved running using a 3D musculoskeletal model with implicit dynamics.
In: Scientific Reports 10, No. 17655. (DOI) (Web link)
Promsri, A; Federolf, P (2020): Analysis of Postural Control Using Principal Component Analysis: The Relevance of Postural Accelerations and of Their Frequency Dependency for Selecting the Number of Movement Components.
In: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology 8, No. 480. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Promsri, A; Haid, T; Federolf, P (2020): Complexity, composition, and control of bipedal balancing movements as the postural control system adapts to instable support surfaces or altered feet positions.
In: Neuroscience 430, pp. 113 - 124. (DOI)
Promsri, A; Haid, T; Werner, I; Federolf, P (2020): Leg Dominance Effects on Postural Control When Performing Challenging Balance Exercises.
In: Brain Sciences 10/3, No. 128. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Trujillo-Priego, I; Zhou, J; Werner, I; Deng, W; Smith, B (2020): Infant Leg Activity Intensity Before and After Naps.
In: Journal for the Measurement of Physical Behaviour 3/2, pp. 157 - 163. (DOI) (Web link)
Wachholz, F; Tiribello, F; Mohr, M; van Andel, S; Federolf, P (2020): Adolescent Awkwardness: Alterations in Temporal Control Characteristics of Posture with Maturation and the Relation to Movement Exploration.
In: Brain Sciences 10/4, No. 216. (Full-text) (DOI) (Web link)
Wachholz, F; Tiribello, F; Promsri, A; Federolf, P (2020): Should the Minimal Intervention Principle Be Considered When Investigating Dual-Tasking Effects on Postural Control?
In: Brain Sciences 10/1, No. 1. (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Review)

Hoitz, F; Mohr, M; Asmussen, M; Lam, W-K; Nigg, S; Nigg, B (2020): The effects of systematically altered footwear features on biomechanics, injury, performance, and preference in runners of different skill level: a systematic review.
In: Footwear Science 12/3, pp. 193 - 215. (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Other)

Falbriard, M; Mohr, M; Aminian, K (2020): Reply to Comments: Hurdle Clearance Detection and Spatiotemporal Analysis in 400 Meters Hurdles Races Using Shoe-Mounted Magnetic and Inertial Sensors.
In: Sensors 20/10, No. 2993. (DOI) (Web link)

Journal Article (Meeting-Abstract)

Netzer, N. C.; Strohmayer, J.; Pramsohler, S.; Wachholz, F.; Rausch, L. K. (2020): Low Dose beta-Blocker in High Blood Pressure Patients Provoke Hypoxia Induced Breathing During Sleep at Low-Moderate Altitude.
In: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine 201, No. A2411.
Netzer, N. C.; Strohmayer, J.; Wachholz, F.; Pramsohler, S.; Rausch, L. K. (2020): Low Dose beta-Blockers in Patients with Mild to Moderate SDB Lead to Significant Increase of AHI Already at Normobaric Hypoxia Equivalent to 1500m Altitude.
In: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine 201, No. A2412.

Proceedings Article (Full Paper)

Eberle, Robert; Heinrich, Dieter (2020): Consideration of Structural Behaviour of Bones in a Musculoskeletal Simulation Model.
In: Ateshian, Gerard A; Myers, Kristin M; Travares, João Manuel R.S: Computer Methods, Imaging and Visualization in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering. Selected Papers from the 16th International Symposium CMBBE and 4th Conference on Imaging and Visualization, August 14-16, 2019, New York City, USA. Cham: Springer Nature (= Lecture Notes in Computational Vision and Biomechanics, 36)., ISBN 978-3-030-43194-5, pp. 464 - 469. (DOI) (Web link)

Proceedings Article (Abstract)

Busquets, A; Angulo-Barroso, R; Federolf, P; Ferrer-Uris, B (2020): Postural movement strategies and control during sensory reweighting: effect of age and gymnastic experience.
In: Dela, F; Müller, E; Tsolakidis, E: 25th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS 2020). Book of Abstracts. Köln: European College of Sport Science (ECSS)., ISBN 978-3-9818414-3-5, p. 316.
Mohr, M; Löffler, S; Schmidt, A; Pieper, R; Federolf, P (2020): Movement smoothness as a marker for adaptations in motor control: the example of fatigue.
In: Dela, F; Müller, E; Tsolakidis, E: 25th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS 2020). Book of Abstracts. Köln: European College of Sport Science (ECSS)., ISBN 978-3-9818414-3-5, p. 42.
Van-Andel, S; Mohr, M; Federolf, P (2020): Reliability of the outcomes of principal component analysis when analyzing the coordinative structures in gait: proof of concept.
In: Dela, F; Müller, E; Tsolakidis, E: 25th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS 2020). Book of Abstracts. Köln: European College of Sport Science (ECSS)., ISBN 978-3-9818414-3-5, p. 140.
Werner, I; Heinrich, D; Federolf, P (2020): Differences between acl-injured and non-injured athletes in motor coordination patterns and leg loading and when instructed to perform “soft landing” – a pilot study.
In: Dela, F; Müller, E; Tsolakidis, E: 25th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science (ECSS 2020). Book of Abstracts. Köln: European College of Sport Science (ECSS)., ISBN 978-3-9818414-3-5, pp. 298 - 299.

For an overview of current and past research projects, please visit our ResearchGate group page. To connect, collaborate, and discuss with us, get in touch via

The goal of our neuromuscular system is to either produce or restrict movement. Think of kicking a soccer ball (produce movement) or trying to stand as still as possible on one leg (restrict movement). Either way, we can use 3D motion analysis to record and reconstruct the three-dimensional movements of all body segments during a certain task and find out how successfully the neuromuscular system controlled this movement task. An example could be to measure the body sway during a standing balance task or two record the ankle, knee, and hip joint angles while walking on a treadmill. Our research team uses two different technologies to carry out 3D motion analyses: Vicon and Xsens. During these activities, we might also be interested in how this neuromuscular control is maintained. Related to this, we can measure muscle activity using Electromyography (EMG) or the electrical activity in the brain using Electroencephalography (EEG).

Kinematic Principal Component Analysis (PCA)

One of our more focused research areas is the application of principal component analysis to 3D movement data in order to structure the movement into individual movement components that can be further analyzed. To find out more about the PCA and how to use it, check out the free software developed in our group: The PManalyzer.

Also, check out the video tutorials and explanations related to the application of PCA on movement data.