Gareth Irwin
Reader in Sports Biomechanics
Email: girwin@cardiffmet.ac.uk
Qualifications
BSc(Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences(1st Class)
PhD
High Performance Coach (Gymnastics)
Academic Leadership
Discipline Director Biomechanics
Sporting Profile
Men’s Welsh Champion 1993-1996
International men’s artistic gymnast Wales 1990-1998
Commonwealth Games 1994, Victoria, Canada
World University Games 1995, Fukuoka, Japan
Commonwealth Games 1998, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
World University Games 1997, Sicily, Italy
Coaching
Wales Men’s Team coach (1998 – 2003)
GB Men’s team coach 2003 World University Games, Dague, South Korea
GB gymnastics Team manager 2003, 2005 and 2007 World University Games
Elected member of the British Universities Gymnastics Management team
GB gymnastics tutor
Accreditation
BASES Accredited Biomechanist (Support)
Research Interests
Biomechanics and gymnastics
Biomechanics and Skill Development
Fatique and Performance
Consultancy
Biomehanics Consultant:
- Welsh Athletics
- British Gymnastics
- Glamorgan Cricket
- Welsh Sport Council Research Honours
Research Honours
British Association of Sports and Exercise Sciences Emerging Research Medal, 2009 Sport & Performance Division.
Trustees of Headley Court (Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre) Research Prize, 2007, Headley Court, England. Awarded for the presentation and defence of a paper entitled ‘Effects of bilateral and unilateral semi-grid ankle orthoses on ankle stability and ground contact kinetics’ in collaboration with Lt Col Gareth Thomas and Prof D.G. Kerwin.
Hans Gros New Investigator Award, International Society of Biomechanics in Sports, 2006, Salzburg, Austria. Awarded for the presentation and defence of a paper entitled ‘Musculoskeletal work of high bar progressions’ in collaboration with Prof D.G. Kerwin.
Invited and Elected Positions
Elected Vice President for the International Society of Biomechanics in Sport, period of appointment 2009-2011.
Elected member of the Board of Directors for the International Society of Biomechanics in Sport, period of appointment 2006-2009.
Invited member of the Higher Education Academy think - tank for innovative methods of learning June 2007 – to date.
Invited member of the Welsh Rugby Union Research Advisory Board, period of appointment 2007 to date.
Membership of Professional Bodies
BAGA
WAGA
ISBS (International Society of Biomehanics in Sport)
CAGA
Research Philosophy
My research philosophy is driven by a desire to understand and explain sporting performance using grounded scientific methods to addresses meaningful questions that inform researchers, coaches, performers and clinicians. There are two themes, which underpin this philosophy; The Coaching-biomechanics interface and Sports medicine and injury. The first theme examines research questions aimed at making training more effective and efficient, and ultimately embedding scientific rigour within the coaching environment. The second examines the role of the sports’ clinician and examines the underlying mechanisms associated with the aetiology of injury. In particular it seeks to explain how biological failures result from internal and external loading associated with abnormal segmental orientations. Ecological validity permeates my research. This facilitates and underpins the transfer of research findings into practical settings and applications. My overall philosophy has attracted collaboration with like-minded academics locally, nationally and internationally. Measures of the success of this approach can be seen in the growth of the School of Sport’s Biomechanics Research Group, the securing of cherished research funding and my recognition at national and international levels through awards, invitations, outputs and an international committee membership.
Research Publications
i. Book contributions
ii. Academic journal articles
iii. Academic journal articles under review
iv. Academic journal abstracts
v. International conference abstracts
vi. National conference abstracts
vii. Academic journal articles in preparation
Other research activities and esteem
i. Keynote lectures and invited conference presentations
ii. Research awards
iii. Invited and elected positions
iv. Academic reviewing
v. Formal National and International research links
vi. Supervision of postgraduate research students
vii. Doctoral Examinations
viii. Invited lectures
ix. Contribution to conference organisation
i. Book contributions
Irwin, G. (in press). Sports medicine and biomechanics. In: L. Micheli, ed. Encyclopaedia of Sports Medicine. pp xx-xx USA, SAGE publications. (published April 2009)
Irwin, G. (in press). The sports biomechanist. In: L. Micheli, ed. Encyclopaedia of Sports Medicine. USA, SAGE publications. pp. xx-xx. (published April 2009)
Irwin, G and Kerwin, D.G. (in press). Advanced multidisciplinary application in technique analysis in elite sports – Example of SESAME Project. In: D. Hackfort, ed. New Approaches for Advancement in Elite Sports. 2nd ed. Qatar, Doha: ASPIRE Sport Science Conference.
Kerwin, D.G. and Irwin, G. (2008). Chapter 8 biomechanics and coaching. In: R. Jones, M. Hughes, K. Kingston, eds. Sports Coaching. London, UK: Routledge. pp. 87-100.
Kerwin, D.G. and Irwin, G. (2006). Predicting high bar forces in the longswing. In: E. F. Moritz and S. Haake, ed’s. The engineering of sport 6, Volume 1: Developments for sports. New York, USA: Springer LLC. pp 189–194. ISBN: 0-387-31773-2
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Musculosketal work in the longswing on high bar. In: E. F. Moritz and S. Haake, eds. The Engineering of Sport 6, Volume 1: Developments for sports. New York, USA, Springer LLC. pp 195 – 200. ISBN: 0-387-31773-2
ii. Academic journal articles
Jones, P.L., Kerwin, D.G., Irwin, G. and Nokes, L.D.M. (in press). Three dimensional analysis of knee biomechanics when landing on natural turf and football turf. Journal of Medical and Biological Engineering.
Kerwin, D.G. and Irwin, G. (in press). Musculoskeletal work during the Tkachev on uneven bars. Sports Biomechanics.
Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2009). The handspring front somersault on the vaulting ‘horse’ and ‘table’. Sports Biomechanics, 8(2), 114-128.
Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2007). Musculoskeletal work of high bar progressions. Sports Biomechanics, 6(3), 360-373.
Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2007). Inter-segmental co-ordination of high bar progressions. Sports Biomechanics. 6(2), 129-142.
Trewartha, G., Bezodis, N., Wilson. C., and Irwin, G. (2007). The control of rotation during rugby union goal kicking. Sports Biomechanics, 6(2), 171-186.
Robbins, M., Wheat, J., Irwin, G., and Bartlett, R. (2006). The changes in movement variability with shooting distance in basketball. Human Movement Studies, 50, 217-238.
Irwin, G., Hanton, S., and Kerwin, D.G. (2005). The conceptual process of progression development in artistic gymnastics. Journal of Sports Sciences, 23(10), 1089-1099.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2005). Biomechanical similarities of progressions for the longswing on high bar. Sports Biomechanics, 4(2), 164-178.
Irwin, G., Hanton, S., and Kerwin, D.G. (2004). Reflective practice and the origins of elite coaching knowledge. Reflective Practice, 5(3), 425-442.
iii. Academic journal articles under review
Irwin, G., and Kerwin D.G. (under review). Functional phase and angular momentum characteristics of high bar swinging: Differences between the Kovacs and Tkachev on high bar. Sports Biomechanics.
Bowtell, M., Bezodis, I., Irwin, G., Wilson, A. and Kerwin, D.G. (under review). Limitations to maximal speed human sprinting – insights from bend running and fatigue. Journal of Sports Sciences.
iv. Academic Journal abstracts
Bezodis, I., Pias, M., Irwin, G., Coulouris, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (in press). Measurement of ground contact times in sprinting using in-shoe pressure sensors. Journal of Sports Sciences.
Kerwin, D.G., Irwin, G, and Samuels, M. (2007). Angular momentum comparison of different Tkachevs. Journal of Sports Sciences, 25(S2), 50-51.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Manning, M., and Brown, R. (2007). Biomechanics of the longswing preceding the Kovacs. Journal of Sports Sciences, 25(S2), 51-52.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Manning, M., and Brown, R. (2007). The development of the Kovacs on high bar. Journal of Sports Sciences, 25(S2), 49-50.
Rosenblatt, B.A., Irwin, G., Wiltshire, D.G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2007). Musculoskeletal loading during the power clean. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 21(4). 16-17.
Robbins, M., Wheat, J., Irwin, G., and Bartlett, R. (2006). Evidence of compensatory variability preserving release parameters in basketball shooting. Journal of Sports Sciences, 23(11), 1159.
Robbins, M., Wheat, J., Irwin, G., and Bartlett, R. (2006). The effect of shooting distance on continuous coordination variability in basketball. Journal of Sports Sciences, 23(11),1158
Kaila, R., Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Side-step cutting using studded soccer boots affects knee rotational and valgus moments and injury potential. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 38(5), 41.
Kaila, R., Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Potential influence of studded and bladed football boots on non-contact anterior cruciate ligament injury when sidestep cutting on artificial turf. Journal Bone & Joint Surgery, 6, 22.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2004). Inter-segmental co-ordination of high bar progressions. Journal of Sports Sciences, 22, 240-241
Thornily, C. and Irwin, G. (2004). Influence of lane on the kinematics of indoor bend sprinting. Journal of Sports Sciences, 22, 240.
Irwin, G., Bown, R., Thomas, E. (2004). Kinematic comparison of the handspring front somersault on the vaulting horse and new table. Journal of Sports Sciences. 22, 242.
I
rwin, G., Glazier, P.S., Tong, R.J., and Radway, J. (2002). Changes in muscle activation characteristics during gymnastics rings routines. Journal of sports sciences, 20, 10-11.
Irwin, G., Hanton, S., Kerwin, D.G. (2002). A model of the development of gymnastic skills. Journal of sports sciences, 20, 65.
v. International conference abstracts
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D. G. (2008). Musculoskeletal work preceding the Tkachev on uneven bars. In: Y.H. Kwon, J. Shim, J.K. Shim and I-S. Shin., eds XXVIth International Symposium of Biomechanics in Sport. Seoul, South Korea. pp191-194
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D. G., and Robbins, M. (2008). Coordination analysis of landing strategies in beam dismounts. In: Y.H. Kwon, J. Shim, J.K. Shim and I-S. Shin., eds XXVIth International Symposium of Biomechanics in Sport. Seoul, South Korea. pp705
Manning, M. L., Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D. G. (2008). Biomechanics of longswings preceding Tkachev on uneven bars. In: Y.H. Kwon, J. Shim, J.K. Shim and I-S. Shin., eds XXVIth International Symposium of Biomechanics in Sport. Seoul, South Korea. pp706-709
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Manning, M., and Brown, R. (2007). Developing the Kovacs on high bar. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp.349-352
Kerwin, D.G., Irwin, G., and Exell, T. (2007). Straddle Tkachev on high bar and uneven parallel bars. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp.422-425
Exell, T., Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2007). Force comparison of backward longswings on high bar and uneven bars. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp.426.
Exell, T., Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2007). Outward and inward Tkachevs on uneven parallel bars. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp. 427-430.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G. and Samuels, M. (2007). Biomechanics of the longswing preceding the Tkachev. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp.431-434.
Thomson, A., Irwin, G., Bezodis, I. and Kerwin D.G. (2007). Biomechanical variability in the sprint start. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp.461.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Resenblatt, B., and Wiltshire, H. (2007). Evaluation of the power clean as a sprint specific exercise. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp.493-496.
Kerwin, D.G., Irwin, G., and Bezodis, I. (2007). Reduced 3D marker set tracking of elite sprint training. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp.497-500.
Thomas, G., Irwin, G., Bowyer. G., Yule, V., Kitsell, F. and Kerwin, D.G. (2007). Effects of bilateral and unilateral semi-grid ankle orthoses on ankle stability and ground contact kinetics. In: H.J. Menzel, and M.H. Chagas., eds. Proceedings of 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil. pp.680-683.
Kalia, R., Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Side-step cutting using studded soccer boots affects rotational and valgus knee moments and injury potential. American College of Sports Medicine. pp 22-23
Kaila, R., Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). The influence of boot undersurface type on knee joint rotational moments and potential non contact ACL injury on the loading at the knee during cutting movements in soccer. In: H. Schwamsder, G. Strytzenberger, V. Fastenbauer, S. Lindinger, and E. Muller., eds. Proceedings of XXIV International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Salzburg, Austria. pp199–202.
Kerwin, D.G. and Irwin, G. (2006) Angular momentum in the straight Tkatchev on high bar. . In: H. Schwamsder, G. Strytzenberger, V. Fastenbauer, S. Lindinger, and E. Muller., eds. Proceedings of XXIV International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Salzburg, Austria. pp263.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Musculoskeletal work of high bar progressions. In: H. Schwamsder, G. Strytzenberger, V. Fastenbauer, S. Lindinger, and E. Muller., eds. Proceedings of XXIV International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Salzburg, Austria. pp83–86.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Musculosketal work in the longswing on high bar. In: E. F. Moritz and S. Haake, eds. The Engineering of Sport 6 Volume 1: Developments for sports. New York, USA: Springer LLC. pp195–200.
Kerwin, D.G. and Irwin, G. (2006). Predicting high bar forces in the longswing. In: E. F. Moritz and S. Haake, eds. The Engineering of Sport 6 Volume 1: Developments for sports. New York, USA: Springer LLC. pp189–194.
Trewartha, G., Bezodis, N., Wilson. C. and Irwin, G. (2005). The influence of coordinated joint actions on the accuracy and variability of the rugby line-out throw. In: M, Lamontagne, D.G.E. Robertson & H. Sveistrup, eds. Proceedings of XXIII International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Beijing.
Trewartha, G., Bezodis, N., Wilson. C. and Irwin, G. (2005). The control of rotation during rugby union goal kicking. In: M, Lamontagne, D.G.E. Robertson & H. Sveistrup, eds. Proceedings of XXIII International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Beijing.
Irwin, G. and Mullineaux, D. (2004). Hip and Shoulder Co-ordination during the handspring front somersault on the vaulting ‘horse’ and ‘table’. In: M, Lamontagne, D.G.E. Robertson & H. Sveistrup, eds. Proceedings of XXIII International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Beijing. pp.129-132.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D. G. (2004). Biomechanical similarities of high bar progressions. In: M, Lamontagne, D.G.E. Robertson & H. Sveistrup, eds. Proceedings of XXIII International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Beijing, Ottowa. pp.602-605.
Glazier, P.S. and Irwin, G. (2001). Validity of stride length estimates obtained from optojump. In: J. Blackwell, ed. Proceedings of poster presentations: XIX international symposium on biomechanics in sports. San Francisco. pp. 98-101.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2001). Use of 2D-DLT for the analysis of longswings on high bar. In: J. Blackwell, eds. Proceedings of Oral presentations: XIX international symposium on biomechanics in sports. San Francisco. pp.315-318.
vi. National conference abstracts
Bezodis, I., Pias, M., Irwin, G., Coulouris, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2008). Measurement of ground contact times in sprinting using in-shoe pressure sensors. In: Programme & Abstracts, Book of the Annual Conference of British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences. Brunell University. pp.12-14.
Kerwin, D.G., Irwin, G. and Samuels, M. (2008). Angular momentum comparison of different Tkachevs. In: D.G. Kerwin, I. Bezodis, and G. Irwin, eds. BIG 2008: Proceeding of XXIVth Biomechanics Interest Group. Cardiff, UK. pp.30.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G. and Samuels, M. (2008). Biomechanics of the longswing preceding the Tkachev. In: D.G. Kerwin, I. Bezodis, and G. Irwin, eds. BIG 2008: Proceeding of XXIVth Biomechanics Interest Group. Cardiff, UK. pp.38.
Kerwin, D.G., Irwin, G. and Exell, T. (2008). Straddle Tkachev on high bar and uneven parallel bars. In: D.G. Kerwin, I. Bezodis, and G. Irwin, eds. BIG 2008: Proceeding of XXIVth Biomechanics Interest Group. Cardiff, UK. pp.28.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Manning, M.L. and Brown, R. (2008). Kinematics of the longswing preceding the Kovacs. In: D.G. Kerwin, I. Bezodis, and G. Irwin, eds. BIG 2008: Proceeding of XXIVth Biomechanics Interest Group. Cardiff, UK. pp.27.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Manning, M.L. and Brown, R. (2008). The development of the Kovacs on high bar. In: D.G. Kerwin, I. Bezodis, and G. Irwin, eds. BIG 2008: Proceeding of XXIVth Biomechanics Interest Group. Cardiff, UK. pp.35.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Manning, M., and Brown, R. (2007). The development of the Kovacs on high bar. In: Programme & Abstracts book of the Annual Conference of British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences. University of Bath. pp.120-121.
Kerwin, D.G., Irwin, G., and Samuels, M. (2007). Angular momentum comparison of different Tkachevs. In: Programme & Abstracts book of the Annual Conference of British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences. University of Bath. pp.121-122.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Manning, M., and Brown, R. (2007). Biomechanics of the longswing preceding the Kovacs. In: Programme & Abstracts book of the Annual Conference of British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences. University of Bath. pp.123.
Francis, I.P, Kaila, R., Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Loading at the knee during cutting movements in soccer. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp.15.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Musculoskeletal work of high bar progressions. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp.16.
Kaila, R., Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., and Fairclough, J. (2006). The influence of boot undersurface on the loading at the knee during cutting movements in soccer. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp.17.
Kerwin, D.G. and Irwin, G. (2006). Angular momentum in the straight Tkatchev on high bar. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp.18.
Thomas, G.D., Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Biomechanical effects of bilateral and unilateral ankle braces on stability and ground reaction forces in service personnel. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp.20.
Thomson, A.D., Wilson, C., Irwin, G. (2006). Specificity of approach run training in the long jump. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp.21.
Tong, R., Irwin, G., Glazier, P., and Radway, J. (2006). Changes in muscle activation characteristics during a gymnastic rings routine. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp.36.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2005). Biomechanical similarities of high bar progressions. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp37.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2005). Inter-segmental co-ordination of high bar progressions. All Wales Sports and Exercise Science and Medicine Conference, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. UK. pp38.
Robbins, M., Wheat, J., Irwin, G., and Bartlett, R. (2005). The effect of shooting distance on continuous coordination variability in basketball. British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences Annual Conference, Loughborough. pp10.
Robbins, M., Wheat, J., Irwin, G., and Bartlett, R. (2005). Evidence of compensatory variability preserving release parameters in basketball shooting. British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences Annual Conference, Loughborough. pp11.
Irwin, G., Bown, R., Thomas, E. (2003). Kinematic comparison of the handspring front somersault on the vaulting horse and new table. British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences Annual Conference, Sheffield .pp.2
Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2003). Inter-segmental co-ordination of high bar progressions. British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences Annual Conference, Sheffield, pp4-5.
Thornily, C. and Irwin, G. (2003). Influence of lane on the kinematics of indoor bend sprinting. British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences Annual Conference, Sheffield, pp8.
Irwin, G., Hanton, S., Kerwin, D. (2001). A model of the development of gymnastic skills. British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences Annual Conference, Newport. pp66- 67.
Irwin, G., Glazier, P.S., Tong, R.J., and Radway, J. (2001). Changes in muscle activation characteristics during gymnastics rings routines. Paper presented at the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences Annual Conference, Newport. pp9-10.
vii. Academic journal articles in preparation
The following list represents academic papers in preparation for submission to refereed journals including authorship order. I have only included those papers where data collection is complete. Presented are the author(s), titles for each study, year for submission and targeted publication outlet.
Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Gittoes, M.A., Mullineaux, D.R. and Robbins, M. (under construction). Dismount and landing technique during forward and backward rotating somersault dismounts from beam. Sports Biomechanics, May 2009.
Charalambous, L., Bezodis, I., Irwin, G., Kerwin D.G. (under construction). Contributions of joint stiffness during sprint starts. Journal of Sports Sciences, June 2009.
Gittoes, M.J.R., Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Mullineaux, D.R, and Robbins, M. (under construction). Variability of impacts mechanics during forward and backward rotating dismounts from Beam: Implications for injury. Journal of Applied Biomechanics, July 2009.
Mullineaux, D.R., Irwin, G., Kerwin, D.G., Robbins, M. and Gittoes, M.A. (under construction). Coordination and variability during multi joint landing strategies in successful and non successful somersault dismounts from beam. Journal of Sports Science, October, 2009
Bezodis, I., Pias, M., Gregor, K., Coulouris, G., Kerwin, D.G. and Irwin, G. (under construction). Measurement of Ground Contact Times in Sprinting Using In-Shoe Pressure Sensors. Journal of Sports Sciences, October 2009.
Irwin, G. and Kerwin D.G. (under construction). Kinematics of the Tkachev on Uneven Bars, Sports Biomechanics, December 2009.
Other research activities and esteem
i. Keynote and invited conference presentations
International
Irwin, G. and Kerwin, D.G. (2008). Biomechanics and performance: insights from gymnastics and SESAME. Invited public open lecture, University of Kentucky, USA December 2008. Keynote.
Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2008). Advanced Multidisciplinary Applications in Technique Analysis in Elite Sports: Example of the SESAME Project. Key note lecture 2nd ASPIRE Sport Science Conference. Doha, Qatar, January 2008. Keynote.
Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2007). Biomechanics of Gymnastics I, Biomechanics and artistic gymnastics: “How similar are the skills for male and female gymnasts?” Applied Symposium at the 25th International Symposium on Biomechanics in Sports. Ouro Preto, Brazil, August 2007. Invited conference presentation.
Irwin, G., and Kerwin, D.G. (2006). Musculoskeletal Work in the Longswing on High Bar, Invited presentation at the 6th Biennial International Conferences on the Engineering of Sport. Munich, Germany, July 2006. Invited conference presentation.
Contributed to presentation
Kerwin, D.G., and Irwin, G. (2007). Biomechanical Evaluation of the new Code of Points, Federation of Internationale, International Gymnastics. Stuttgart Germany: 6th September 2007. Keynote.
Kerwin, D.G., and Irwin, G. (2006). Predicting high bar forces in the longswing. Invited presentation at the 6th Biennial International Conferences on the Engineering of Sport. Munich, Germany, July 2006. Invited conference presentation.
National
Irwin, G. (2007). The Influence of Boot Under-surface on Injury Risk in Football. Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh. 19th Joint Conference on Sports Injury, Daventry, UK, July, 2007. Keynote.
Irwin, G. (2005). The Science of Coaching, a joint presentation with Professor Dan Gould (the World Leading Sports Psychologist) at the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences: Annual; Conference (Coaching Section): Loughborough, UK, September 2005. Invited Lecture.
Irwin, G. (2004). ‘The role of sports biomechanics in reducing injury’. Meeting of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy in Sport. Cardiff, October, 2004. Invited Lecture.
Irwin, G. (2001). ‘Biomechanics of injury’. Meeting of the British Association of Sports Medicine. Swansea, July, 2001. Invited Lecture.
Contributed to presentation
Gittoes, M.A. and Irwin, G. (2008). ‘Motion Analysis: Application in Sport and Exercise Biomechanics’ CITER (Cardiff Institute of Tissue Engineering and Repair) Motion Capture & Analysis Workshop. Cardiff University, December 2008. Invited Lecture.
ii. Research awards
Hans Gros New Investigator Award, International Society of Biomechanics in Sports, 2006, Salzburg, Austria. Awarded for the presentation and defence of a paper entitled ‘Musculoskeletal work of high bar progressions’ in collaboration with Prof D.G. Kerwin.
Trustees of Headley Court (Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre) Research Prize, 2007, Headley Court, England. Awarded for the presentation and defence of a paper entitled ‘Effects of bilateral and unilateral semi-grid ankle orthoses on ankle stability and ground contact kinetics’ in collaboration with Lt Col Gareth Thomas and Prof D.G. Kerwin.
British Association of Sports and Exercise Sciences Emerging Research Medal, 2009 Sport & Performance division
iii. Invited and elected positions
Elected Vice President for the International Society of Biomechanics in Sport, period of appointment 2009-2011.
Elected member of the Board of Directors for the International Society of Biomechanics in Sport, period of appointment 2006-2009.
Invited member of the Higher Education Academy think - tank for innovative methods of learning June 2007 – to date.
Invited Editor of the International Society of Biomechanics in Sport research website June 2007 – to date.
Invited member of the Welsh Rugby Union Research Advisory Board, period of appointment 2007 to date.
iv. Academic reviewing
a. Research council expert reviewer
Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC)
b. Expert reviewer for academic journals
Journal of Biomechanics
Sports Biomechanics
Journal of Sports Sciences
International Journal of Sports Medicine
British Journal of Sports Medicine
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
Sports Engineering
International Journal of Sports Science and coaching
Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport
v. Formal National and International research links
The following provides evidence of my increased internationalism in sports biomechanics
Australian Catholic University, Department of Exercise Sciences
Principal investigator in a collaborative project examining the biomechanics of vaulting, specifically addressing questions associated with injury during landing and contact phases, and the variability in performances during the key phases of these skills.
Teaching and Leaning: The link to ACU has seen the establishment of a formal exchange programme between ACU and UWIC, with the first students from each institutes arriving January 2009.
University of Kentucky, College of Education
Principal investigator in a collaborative project examining the biomechanics of landing from dismounts on Beam. (http://www.uky.edu/Education/news/08/IrwinVisit.html). The research has many potential spin offs including the potential to formally be involve in research projects linked with NASA and muscle damage during weightlessness. The University of Kentucky have funded one trip Dec 2008, and anther potentially funded trip in June 2009. The other research Professor David Mullineaux is visiting UWIC in August 2009.
Royal Veterinary College, University of London
‘Biomechanics of Running’ collaborative research with the Professor Alan Wilson and colleagues at the Royal Veterinary College. Building on previous research (resulting publications)
Cambridge University Cambridge, Computer Sciences Department
Collaborator in a project examining pressure insole technology for the analysis of sprinting
University College London, Institute of Neurology (2007)
Principal investigator into ‘Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation and Sport’ a research project with Prof Brian Day the Head of the Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders (Institute of Neurology, University College London). This extends previous research into coordination and balance by this group
vi. Supervision of postgraduate research students
*Mark Samuels: Thesis Title: The biomechanics of advanced skill development on high bar in men’s gymnastics. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Co-supervised by Dr Marianne Gittoes and Prof David G Kerwin. Estimated completion date Winter 2009
Tim Exell: Thesis Title: The biomechanics of technique development in sprinting: The coaching-biomechanics interface. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Co-supervised by Dr Marianne Gittoes and Prof David G Kerwin. Estimated completion date summer 2010
*Michelle Manning: Thesis Title: Factors influencing the performance of the Tkachev on uneven bars. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Co-supervised by Dr Marianne Gittoes and Prof David G Kerwin. Estimated completion date summer 2011
*Ben Rosenblatt: Thesis Title: Biomechanical specificity of Olympic lifting for sprint training. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Co-supervised by Dr Cassie Wilson and Prof David G Kerwin. Estimated completion date summer 2013
*Genevieve Williams: Thesis Title: The development of a graphical user interface for effective feedback in artistic gymnastics. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Co-supervised by Prof David G Kerwin and TBC. Estimated completion date summer 2012
Philippa Jones: Thesis Title: Musculoskeletal loading during football movements: An injury perspective. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Co-supervised by Prof David G Kerwin and Prof Len Noakes (Cardiff University). Estimated completion date summer 2011
*Dawn Tighe: Thesis Title: Limitations in calculating internal joint torques. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Co-supervised by Dr Marianne Gittoes and Prof David G Kerwin. Estimated completion date summer 2012
* Denotes director of study
vii. Doctoral Examinations
I am the provisionally appointed internal examiner for 2 PhD’s
Ceri Diss: Thesis Title: The effects of age on the biomechanics of running gait in masters runners. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Supervisory Team Dr Marianne Gittoes, Prof David Kerwin and Dr Richard Tong.
Scott Simpson: Thesis Title: The biomechanics of the triple jump. Student registered at University of Wales Institute, Cardiff. Supervisory Team Dr Cassie Wilson, Prof David Kerwin and Dr Andrew Miles.
viii. Invited lectures
Irwin, G. (2009). ‘Sports biomechanics and gymnastics’, Nottingham Trent University
Irwin, G. (2008). ‘The role of sports biomechanics and contemporary issues’, Cornwall College and Plymouth University
Irwin, G. (2008). Sports biomechanics defined. The Influence of Boot Under-surface on Injury Risk in Football, Welsh Society of Sports Medicine, Vale of Glamorgan
Irwin, G. (2007). ‘Sports biomechanics and performance’, Cornwall College and Plymouth University
Irwin G., and Kerwin, G. (2006). 'Biomechanics and Gymnastics’, Department of Sports Science, University of Swansea
Irwin, G. (2006). ‘The role of sports biomechanics in reducing injury’. University of Wales College of Medicine: Department of Post Graduate Studies Physiotherapy, Cardiff
Irwin, G. (2006). ‘Sports biomechanics and coaching’, Cornwall College and Plymouth University
Irwin, G. (2005). ‘The role of sports biomechanics in reducing injury and increasing performance. University of Wales College of Medicine: Department of Post Graduate Studies Physiotherapy, Cardiff
Irwin, G. (1997). Biomechanics and gymnastics performance: Twisting somersaults’ Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences Exeter University
ix. Contribution to conference organisation
Invited member of the scientific committee International Society of Sports Biomechanics Conferences ISBS 2009 XXVIIth International Symposium of Biomechanics in Sport, Limerick, Ireland.
Invited member of the scientific committee International Society of Sports Biomechanics Conferences ISBS 2008 XXVIth International Symposium of Biomechanics in Sport, Seoul, South Korea.
Member of the organising team of British association of sport and exercise sciences (BASES), Biomechanics section conference, June 2008, Cardiff School of Sport, University of Wales Institute Cardiff.
Co-editor of the conference proceedings British association of sport and exercise sciences (BASES), Biomechanics section conference, June 2008, Cardiff School of Sport, University of Wales Institute Cardiff.
Member of the Organising committee for the Welsh Institute Sport Health and Exercise Science (WISHES), UWIC, June 2006.