Abhinav Bindra Targeting Performance Research Visit Report

On June 1st, 2023, I made the sound decision to visit the Abhinav Bindra Targeting Performance Center in Pune. Founded by India’s Olympic champion, Abhinav Bindra, the centre utilises cutting-edge technologies to evaluate and enhance athletes’ performance and posture. This experience piqued my interest in the fascinating fusion of biology and engineering behind these advancements. I believe that while biology may be the adjective to engineering, I am as excited by the engineering that is biology.   1. Posturebench – Back Muscle Force: Posturebench is designed to study how back muscles function and their impact on posture. It analyses the biological aspects of muscle force, viewing the coordination patterns of muscles. Additionally, the special features of the equipment, such as the adjustable resistance levels and ergonomic design, play a crucial role in targeting specific muscle groups and providing an in-depth analysis of the athlete’s posture.   2. Prokin – Static and Dynamic Posture Assessment: Prokin facilitates stationary and mobile posture assessments. It compares posture on moving versus non-moving surfaces using a magnetometer on the chest to measure trunk sway. The equipment checks both stationary and mobile postures, including single leg tests. The biological aspects considered are joint stability, muscular balance, and proprioception, which play vital roles in maintaining proper posture and preventing injuries.   3. WalkerView – Gait Assessment: WalkerView utilises a sensory belt and a 3D IR camera for assessment of the waking style. The motion-based analysis helps identify any neurological issues that may affect an athlete’s gait. In cases where an athlete cannot walk, a harness is used to facilitate gait training. The equipment also employs foot sensors for run tests, offering insights into foot movements, particularly among elite athletes. Biological aspects studied include gait mechanics, muscle activation patterns, and any unnecessary movements caused by altered ranges of motion.   4. Digital Wall – Overall Athletic Ability: The Digital Wall utilises a 3D IR camera to assess various aspects of an athlete’s movement. The camera captures precise movements and biomechanics, allowing for detailed analysis of physical performance. It analyses the force exerted and posture of the athlete during movements such as squat jumps, push ups, high jumps, and spot jogging. The biological aspects considered in this assessment include joint angles, movement patterns, and muscle activation, all of which are essential for identifying areas of improvement and enhancing overall performance.   5. Isomove – Testing Quadriceps to Hamstring Force Ratio: Isomove focuses on testing the quadriceps to hamstring force ratio during power, strength, and endurance assessments. The equipment employs isokinetic force testing, including resistance tests and force tests, to evaluate muscle performance. Concentric, isometric, and isotonic movements are analysed to provide comprehensive insights into an athlete’s muscular strength and balance. Biological aspects studied here include muscle imbalances, strength ratios, and muscle fatigue.   My visit to the Abhinav Bindra Targeting Performance Center was truly eye-opening. I gained valuable insights into the bio-mechanical aspects of athletic equipment and assessments from experts like Dr. Anisha Nagarkar and Dr. Hemant Gaidhani. My understanding of skeletal and muscular biology was deepened and I am inspired by the symbiotic relationship between biology and engineering in the pursuit of human excellence.