Muscles, Reflexes, and Locomotion

This text is a classic for understanding the mechanics of muscles and the movements they cause. From the mechanics of actin and myosin bridges to limbs as levers, it covers the full spectrum of mechanics in a technical but readable way. I had this as a textbook for a class in biomechanics that was excellent, I would recommend it to anyone wanting more than the simple gross mechanics of lever systems most treatments of this subject get. Be aware that to get full use out of this you will want to sharpen your calculus.... :)

This book presents its title subjects in a clear analytical style. While it is a textbook, it is quite accessible to the educated lay reader; the prose is nontechnical and can be easily understood without reference to the equations. The numerous diagrams are clear and aid understanding. The first five chapters describe the biochemistry and mechanics underlying muscular action. The next two chapters cover how the central nervous system controls and coordinates muscular action. The final two chapters cover the mechanics of locomotion, with particular attention to how size and shape relate to movement. McMahon presents the most current scientific thinking on each subject, along with a brief history of earlier theories. As a ballroom dancer and engineer, I found the book fascinating. McMahon is a professor of Applied Mechanics and of Biology at Harvard University. Some of the material presented in the final chapters of the book stems from his own research and theoretical work. This work was used by Harvard University to design and build a 'tuned track' to increase runners' speeds, on which a number of record times were promptly set.