Understand the study of biomechanics applies the laws of forces and motion, and through direct measurement, computer simulation and mathematical modelling lead to a better understanding of human movement and improved athletic performance.

A sports science research team investigated the vertical jump performance of elite basketball players. They used force plates embedded in the floor to measure ground reaction forces during the take-off phase, motion-capture cameras to track the centre of mass displacement, and mathematical modelling software to calculate power output and predict optimal jump technique. The study compared two training groups over eight weeks. Group A followed traditional strength training protocols, while Group B used biomechanical feedback from computer simulations that modelled individual joint angles, force application timing, and predicted maximum jump height based on optimised movement patterns. Results showed Group B improved mean vertical jump height by 8.2 cm compared to 3.1 cm for Group A. Computer models identified that athletes in Group B reduced counterproductive horizontal ground reaction forces by 23% and increased the rate of force development in the first 150 ms of take-off by 34%. Justify how the integration of direct measurement, computer simulation and mathematical modelling in this study led to improved athletic performance.

A biomechanist uses motion-capture technology to measure the vertical jump height of an athlete. The athlete's centre of mass rises 0.45 m during the jump. Which statement best describes how this biomechanical application of the laws of motion leads to improved athletic performance?