The Optimal Technique for Maximizing Playground Swing Height, According to Physics
Originally Published 2 years ago — by ScienceAlert
Physicists from Japan and Australia have developed a mathematical model for the perfect swinging technique on a playground swing. The model identifies how riders adapt how they 'pump' the swing as the swinging distance increases. The researchers combined and expanded upon the key aspects of two models that have been proposed to capture how the upper body moves to pump a swing. The new model also accounted for subtle changes in positioning and movement depending on the goal of the rider. Motion capture data revealed that study participants were indeed pumping the swing as predicted by the new and improved mathematical model.