Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance Seminar

Speaker: Elizabeth Schumann, Stanford University

One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Modeling and Measuring Ergonomic and Biomechanical Factors in Peak Piano Performance
Abstract:
The current design of the piano keyboard, largely unchanged since the late 19th century, assumes a single ergonomic standard that fits some bodies better than others. This one size fits all approach can increase injury risk and limit opportunity for smaller handed pianists, especially women. Treating the instrument as part of the human performance system makes ergonomic fit a measurable variable in peak piano performance. This talk will present quantitative findings comparing players with different hand sizes on standard and narrow keyboards, tracking speed, accuracy, and key velocity as tempo rises.

Speakers:
Bradley Needles, University of Colorado
Luis Morata Moreno, University of Colorado

The Effects of Advanced Footwear Technology Midsole Properties on the Biomechanics and Running Economy of Female and Male Athletes
Abstract:
Since the introduction of advanced footwear technology (AFT) spikes in 2020, elite athletes have improved race times by 0.3–2.5% in events from 800 m to 10,000 m. These gains are likely linked to more compliant, energy-returning midsole foams and increased cushioning compared to traditional spikes. Footwear acting in-series with the leg can alter biomechanics, including leg stiffness and ground contact time, which influence running economy and performance. However, performance benefits may vary by sex and running speed. Our study investigates how AFT midsole compliance and energy return affect biomechanics and metabolic cost in female and male runners across speeds.

Register

About the Seminar Series
The seminar series features speakers from across the institutions that make up the Alliance, covering topics related to our mission of uncovering the principles of performance and translating them to improved performance and care of athletes and all people.

The goal of the seminar series is to foster scientific exchange and the formation of new research collaborations through a set of research talks that are clear and compelling to researchers from a broad range of fields.

Please contact humanperformance@stanford.edu with any questions.