Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
Spring 5-3-2013
Advisor
Jaan Valsiner
Keywords
Biomechanics, bipedalism, brachiation, brain trauma, evolution, Gibbons, neurophysiology, primates
Abstract
This conference paper serves to examine the evolutionary linkages of a brachiating ancestor in humans, the biomechanical and neurophysiology of modern day brachiators, and the human rediscovery of this form of locomotion. Brachiation is arguably one of the most metabolically effective modes of travel by any organism and can be observed most meritoriously in Gibbons. The purpose of the research conducted for this paper was to encourage further exploration of the neurophysiological similarities and differences between humans and non-human primates. The hope is that in spurring more interest and research in this area, further possibilities for rehabilitating brain injury will be developed, or even theories on how to better train our athletes, using the biomechanics and neurophysiology of brachiation as a guide.
Recommended Citation
Pennock, Emma ET, "From Gibbons to Gymnasts: A Look at the Biomechanics and Neurophysiology of Brachiation in Gibbons and its Human Rediscovery" (2013). Student Works. 2.
https://commons.clarku.edu/studentworks/2
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.
Included in
Biophysics Commons, Comparative and Evolutionary Physiology Commons, Evolution Commons, Exercise Physiology Commons, Other Neuroscience and Neurobiology Commons