Research Topics Muscle Function in Locomotion Muscle is the motor that drives locomotion. Our recent studies in this area have focused on questions such as: how do the different tasks that muscles perform during walking contribute to the total metabolic cost, and how does muscle fiber type distribution influence the energetics of pedaling. Current research is focused on understanding the effects of musculoskeletal design on the energetic cost of locomotion, and on developing improved models for predicting muscle energy consumption. Current work is supported by two grants from the UMass Research Office. Evolution of Bipedalism Walking upright on two straight legs is one of the key evolutionary adaptations that sets us apart from other primates. However, it is difficult to understand the evolutionary events that led to our current condition, based on the fossil record alone. In this research, we are using computer models of modern humans, chimpanzees, and extinct human ancestors to better understand the energetic consequences of specific evolutionary adaptations in the structure of the bones and muscles in the legs. This should lead to a better understanding of the transition to habitual bipedalism in early human ancestors. This work is being pursued in collaboration with colleagues from Stony Brook University (New York), and is supported by a grant from the US National Science Foundation. Gait Disorders in Cerebral Palsy Children with cerebral palsy commonly have a cost of walking two-to-three times higher than able- bodied children. This may be partly due to poor regulation of the mechanical energy generated by their muscles. We are using a 3D model of the whole body to determine how energy generated at each of the joints is distributed throughout the body to effect walking. These mechanical analyses are combined with measurements of physiological cost, which together should shed new light on the causes of inefficient gait in cerebral palsy. This work is being pursued in collaboration with colleagues from the Shriners Hospital for Children (Lexington, KY), and is supported by a grant from Kosair Charities. © 2012 LRG | Department of Kinesiology | University of Massachusetts Amherst Locomotion Research Group Department of Kinesiology University of Massachusetts 30 Eastman Lane Amherst, MA 01003-9258 Phone: 413-545-1436 Fax: 413-545-2906