Sam graduated from the University of Birmingham with a BSc in Sport and Exercise Sciences in the year 2000; he then obtained an MSc in Sports Biomechanics from Loughborough University in 2004. Following this, he taught at Doncaster College for a year before returning to Loughborough to undertake a PhD in the computer simulation of the triple jump, which he completed in 2009. After a period of working on a dental project as a Research Associate in the School of Sport, Exercise, and Health Sciences, Sam was appointed as a Lecturer in Sports Biomechanics in the summer of 2010. Sam is a keen sportsman with a background in Athletics, Rugby, and Cricket.
Sam's main research interests lie in the understanding of technique and the optimisation of performance in dynamic jumps using computer simulation. He is also interested in increasing the biofidelity of computer simulation models in order to better represent the systems that are being simulated. In addition to jumping Sam is also interested in human locomotion; specifically running and sprinting.
Reviewer
- Journal of Biomechanics
- Journal of Applied Biomechanics
- Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
- PLoS One
External Examiner
- Nottingham Trent University
Featured publications
- Rottier, TD, Allen S.J., 2021. The influence of swing leg technique on maximum running speed. J. Biomech. 126, 110640.
- Miller, R., Balshaw, T.G., Massey, G.J., Maeo, S., Lanza, M.B., Johnston, M., Allen, S.J., Folland, J.P. 2021. The Muscle Morphology of Elite Sprint Running. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 53(4), 804-815.
- Folland J.P., Allen S.J., Black M.I., Handsaker, J.C., Forrester, S.E., 2017. Running technique is an important component of running economy and performance. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 49(7), 1412.
- Allen, S.J., King, M.A. and Yeadon, M.R., 2016. The effect of increasing strength and approach velocity on triple jump performance. J. Biomech. 49(16), 3796-3802.
- Allen, S.J., King, M.A. and Yeadon, M.R., 2013. Trade-offs between horizontal and vertical velocities during triple jumping and the effect on phase distances. J. Biomech. 46(5), 979–983.
- Allen, S.J., King, M.A., Yeadon, M.R., 2012. Models incorporating pin joints are suitable for simulating performance but unsuitable for simulating internal loading. J. Biomech. 45 (8), 1430–1436.
- Allen, S.J., King, M.A. and Yeadon, M.R., 2010. Is a single or double arm technique more advantageous in triple jumping? J. Biomech. 43(16), 3156-3161.