Application of Symmetry in Biomechanics

Dear Colleagues,

Symmetry is vital in biomechanics and sports science in injury prevention, rehabilitation, performance optimization, biomechanical analysis, and understanding human movement. Symmetrical movement patterns are vital in reducing injury risks by maintaining balance in the body and are essential in rehabilitation to ensure even load distribution. In sports, symmetry correlates with more efficient and effective performance, prompting athletes to train to improve symmetrical strength, flexibility, and movement. It also serves as a crucial parameter in biomechanical analysis, helping to assess techniques and identify areas for improvement with the aid of modern technology.

Despite its significance, the application of symmetry in this field faces challenges such as individual variability, where athletes exhibit different levels of symmetry, making it hard to set universal standards. The complexity of measuring and analyzing symmetry, especially in dynamic movements, remains a hurdle, with ongoing research dedicated to developing more precise tools. Understanding the impact of asymmetry is complex, as some can be natural or beneficial in specific sports contexts. Developing training interventions that improve symmetry without causing other imbalances is a delicate and research-intensive task. Additionally, there is a need for more longitudinal studies to understand better the long-term effects of symmetry and asymmetry on injury risk and athletic performance. While symmetry is a fundamental aspect of biomechanics and sports science, it presents several challenges in measurement, analysis, and practical application in training and rehabilitation protocols.

We are pleased to announce a Special Issue inviting research contributions on the role of symmetry in biomechanics and sports science, focusing on its multifaceted challenges and unresolved questions. This Special Issue seeks to cover various aspects, including injury prevention, rehabilitation, performance optimization, and biomechanical analysis. Submissions that delve into topics such as individual variability in athletes' symmetry, advancements in measuring and analyzing symmetry in dynamic movements, and the interplay between symmetry and asymmetry in different sports contexts are encouraged. Contributions that investigate training interventions for improving symmetry and longitudinal studies on the long-term effects of symmetry and asymmetry on injury risk and athletic performance are also welcome. This Special Issue aims to be a hub for pioneering research and comprehensive insights that enhance our understanding of symmetry's practical applications in biomechanics and sports science.

Prof. Dr. Dragan Mirkov
Prof. Dr. Saša Đurić
Prof. Dr. Vedrana Sember
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Symmetry is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• biomechanical symmetry
• sports science
• injury prevention and rehabilitation
• performance optimization
• biomechanical analysis