Power: It’s an athlete’s ability to generate strength and speed in a short amount of time, meaning the ability to match strength and velocity within a condensed timeframe.
In my last post, I discussed the interconnectivity of the musculoskeletal system, drawing parallels with the adage “neurons that wire together, fire together. Although, in real terms, it doesn’t matter how you generate your power, I am speaking more from a scientist’s perspective looking into generating effortless power. So it’s not a cricket batting or bowling video from a coaching perspective.
This is one of good examples I thought of displaying power (leveraging back) just with sheer movement and timing. At the neuronal level, it’s about signal speed and synchonization (circuitry and mylien), but today, I would like to focus on it from a physical perspective. What brings this on, and why don’t we see it often?
In my hypothesis, the answer lies within the domain of training, as discussed in my previous post
Generating force/power is one aspect of sports, but how you generate power is surprisingly different. Take note of the skillful manipulation of the bowler’s back, which harnesses spinal elasticity to optimum effect. Equally enchanting is the batsman’s ability to swiftly amass maximal power and culminate with a display of refined finesse.
It is the training that produces the skillful manipulation of the bowler’s back for leveraging spine elasticity, or the batsman generating his top power so quickly by leveraging the spine and finishing in an absolute gentleman’s way. Well balanced. So leveraging back is not just about gaining power, it also helps keep a balanced structure through the movement.
Essentially it is your spine that is dictating the movement via muscles and not the other way around. And this is largely dictated by how we train.
Training encompasses the strategic utilization of existing strength reserves. It serves as a means to amplify potential and elevate performance optimally.
In the first ball, the batsman makes his shot look pretty easy, giving the expression of an ordinary bowler. However, when you look at the second ball, you realize the quality of the bowler. Their graceful use of the back, again, is a beautiful gift and a treat to watch.
Note: Put on the sound to hear the sweet whisper from the bat, implying perfect contact.
Umesh Chhikara 