The student:

• has a basic knowledge of electrophysiology and the background of electromyographical signals;
• has a basic knowledge of the different ways of collecting electromyograpical data in various fields of application;
• can choose the appropriate method for collecting and analyzing EMG data in a kinesiological study;
• knows the possibilities and limitations of EMG data;
• can interpret EMG data in relation to motor control, force and fatigue;
• can identify contamination in EMG data and know which methods to apply to reduce its effects. 

In this course, the students are introduced to the electrophysical background of electromyography (EMG). Subsequently, the course focuses on methodological aspects of EMG acquisition and analysis, addressing the potential of this method as well as its pitfalls. 

Teaching methods
lectures (2 hours per lecture), seminars (1 hour per seminar)
The lectures introduce the following topics:

• EMG amplitude estimation;
• force regulation (motor unit recruitment and firing);
• sources of variability of EMG data;
• electrode types;
• bio-electricity
• volume conduction;
• action potential propagation;
• applications of EMG amplitude estimation;
• applications of EMG frequency content estimation
• optimisation of EMG acquisition and analysis.

In the seminars questions of students and the exercises will be discussed. 

Lecturers VU
Dieen, J. van; j.van.dieen@vu.nl
One more lecture will be communicated by VU