Introducing the new KU Biomechanics Laboratory in HSES
Understanding how injuries happen, how to prevent injuries, monitor the rehabilitation process, and improve sports performance are the goals of the newly developed Biomechanics Laboratory at the University of Kansas in the Health, Sport, and Exercise Sciences Department. The Biomechanics Lab opened in the fall of 2023 under the direction of Dr. Yu Song. The research uses biomechanical analysis to study injury risk factors, evaluate training and rehabilitation programs, and provide technique feedback on sports performance.
“When we hired Dr. Song in the fall of 2023, she immediately had a vision for a cutting-edge Biomechanics laboratory. It’s been wonderful to see that vision come to fruition, and I can’t wait to see the impactful work that her and her students will complete over the coming years.” Dr. Jordan Bass, Health, Sport, and Exercise Sciences Department Chair.
The Laboratory includes three areas, one for classroom instruction, one for research, and one for office area for graduate students. The classroom is setup to accommodate 25 students. The research area is configured using Vicon 3D motion cameras and Bertec force plates. The lab also uses the Delsys Trigno Research EMG System with multiple Trigno Avanti Sensors for muscle activation measurement.
Dr. Yu Song also collaborates with other HSES labs, the Orthopedic Sports Medicine Research Team of Dr. Bryan Vopat in KU Medical Center, The University of Kansas Health System Sports Medicine and Performance Center (a PT clinic in Overland Park, Kansas City), and the Exercise & Human Performance Laboratory (Edwards Campus with Dr. Ashley Herda).
Dr. Yu Song is an Assistant Professor in the Exercise Science Program and the Director of the Biomechanics Laboratory in the Department of HSES at the KU Lawrence campus. Dr. Song received her doctoral degree in Biomedical Sciences with an emphasis on Sports and Injury Biomechanics at the University of Wyoming. Dr. Song is an active member of the International Society of Biomechanics in Sports (ISBS) and the American Society of Biomechanics (ASB). She serves as a committee member of several sub-committees under both ISBS and ASB.
