Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: neilep on 04/04/2011 20:01:36

Title: How Do We Evaluate Our Capacity To Complete A Jump ?
Post by: neilep on 04/04/2011 20:01:36

Dear Jumpologists,

As a sheepy I of course luff jumping. It's all I think about really...even ewe sometimes may imagine me jumping over a fence to help ewe sleep !. yes, jumping is my all time favourite past time which involves propelling myself over something  or across something !

Look...here I am !

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Me Jumping Earlier Today !


I safely made that jump and then spent the rest of the day jumping to my hearts content all over the place....


What I would like to know is what is the science behind the evaluation process that indicates to ourselves as to whether we are capable of successfully completing the jump ?


I can think of a few things but I'm more interested in the thought process that is using a knowledge based on our current ability. How do we know our limits when thinking this through  ?


As a firm believer in empirical study I plan to sneak into my neighbours house at 3am tomorrow morning and whilst he gladly allows me to restrict him into a star shape upon his bed I will empirically jump on his mattress all night !...hoping the answer will follow.

However, historically, my neighbour (although willing to participate every time) has never really been forthcoming with the answer so, in advance of imminent failure I am asking ewe !


whajafink ?


Hugs and shmishes


mwah mwah mwah


neil
Fosbury Flopping Fleecey
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Title: How Do We Evaluate Our Capacity To Complete A Jump ?
Post by: CliffordK on 04/04/2011 21:15:21

Jumping across a ditch, for example, one would take a number of things into account, including a rough estimate of our longest jump in the past. 

One would also certainly take into account the consequences of failure including the characteristics of the landing spot, traction, handholds, etc.

For example...  would one just end up with wet shoes?
Or is it certain death?

Title: How Do We Evaluate Our Capacity To Complete A Jump ?
Post by: neilep on 04/04/2011 21:25:32

Quote from: CliffordK on 04/04/2011 21:15:21

Jumping across a ditch, for example, one would take a number of things into account, including a rough estimate of our longest jump in the past. 

One would also certainly take into account the consequences of failure including the characteristics of the landing spot, traction, handholds, etc.

For example...  would one just end up with wet shoes?
Or is it certain death?

Thank ewe very much for this Clifford...Say for example I had never jumped over a ditch before...never attempted a long jump of any sort in fact !...there is still an instinct that helps me assess my capability yes ?....something communicates the visual cue to our decision process based on.....well...based on what ?