DID WE ALREADY KNOW IT ALL IN 1550?
Andreas Vesalius (1514–1564) was an Belgian anatomist, physician, and author of one of the most influential books on human anatomy. There have not been many practical changes since Vesalius’ book came out. Yes, we have renamed muscles and found a couple of new ones, but the changes have mostly taken place on the theoretical side. The principles of thinking – how we are built, how we function – have only very recently started to change. But what has changed?
FROM STRUCTURAL TO FUNCTIONAL
Structural anatomy is a vital instrument when navigating the body, especially when it is treated as a clinical entity. But when you add movement, the situation becomes entirely different. What we know today about muscle function has completely changed our view on how the body works. We know more about things like biomechanics, fascia, and proprioceptors, which has shaped our understanding of human movement.
FORCES CHANGE THE INTERPLAY
Maybe the most vital change is our understanding of nature’s laws. Vesalius book, along with many others, tells us that sternocleidomastoideus (SCM) flexes the neck. Try standing up and looking down at the floor. Does the SCM contract? Does that influence our strategies in training? This knowledge that are one of the basis of P9 exercise system has to be captured. Our quest for understanding the human organism has only begun. We need to use both science and logic to make the right decision for each individuals needs. All exercises recomendations should be based on the needs and wants analysis.