Thread by @dr_jump_uk

What is the theory in Dynamic Systems Theory? (thread/rant)

#WhyDoPeopleMakeEverythingSoComplicated

Dynamics is part of Classical (Newtonian) Mechanics.

Biomechanics is the application of classical mechanics to biological systems.

In dynamics we model (describe) change by a system of differential equations.

In order to find the state of the thing we are modelling at any given time we need to solve these differential equations.

If you don’t know what a differential equation is, or how to solve one, that’s OK. This is degree level mathematics.

I am pretty sure that you don’t need a maths degree to be an excellent strength and conditioning coach.

The thing that is interesting about solving systems of differential equations is that the solution can be very sensitive to its boundary (starting) conditions.

For some ranges of the starting condition the solution can be very very sensitive to small variations in the starting condition - a very small difference can lead to a very different solution - this is called chaotic behaviour.

In other ranges of the starting conditions the solution can have convergent behaviour - even if the starting conditions are quite different (variable) the solution ends up being the same or similar.

Of course, change in movement can be modelled by differential equations, and so we can use this method to understand movement.

I assume, therefore, that the "theory" is that conclusions from a dynamical analysis are valid in giving insight into the movements upon which they are based.

However, this analysis is simply a classical mechanical analysis of a biological system. It is biomechanics. So, it seems that dynamic systems theory is a theory that we can use (a part of) biomechanics to understand movement.

This seems a needlessly grand way to express this.

The language of dynamical systems can be used to describe training (and this usage is not incorrect).

And the fact that some dynamic systems show convergent behaviour in some regions of their boundary conditions is helpful in understanding movement.

But this can be said much more simply, and without appealing to dynamic systems theory. For instance, this is just the principle that some systems can self organise under certain conditions.

Or even more simply, people can often naturally work out a fluid and efficient movement themselves, if we set them good movement challenges (tasks/exercises) that nudge them towards the skill we want.

Why is it therefore necessary to invoke mathematics and use mathematical terminology to express this concept?