Interactive biomechanics lever and force summation demonstration

Your biggest muscles move last

In fast movements like throwing or kicking, the sequence goes big to small: hips rotate first, then shoulders, then arm, then wrist. Each segment stacks momentum onto the next. Drag the slider to fire segments in sequence.

Summation Sequence 0 segments active
Sequential activation from proximal to distal
Hips ready
Rest Hips Torso Arm Hand
Final velocity 0 m/s
Energy transfer 0%

In throwing, the kinetic chain begins with hip rotation generating torque in the transverse plane. This angular momentum transfers to the torso, which adds frontal plane flexion and further rotation. The shoulder joint then accelerates the upper arm using the deltoids and rotator cuff muscles. Finally, elbow extension and wrist snap add the terminal velocity. Each segment contributes roughly 20-30% additional velocity, compounding to create release speeds exceeding 40 m/s in elite cricket fast bowlers. The principle is universal: larger, slower-moving proximal segments create a foundation for smaller, faster distal segments.

Know This

Summation of momentum sequences body segments from large to small, with each link in the chain adding velocity to maximise speed at release or impact.