Position

Professor, Department of Kinesiology

Academic Background

• Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA Ph.D., in Motor Control/Biomechanics, 1998
• Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA M.S. in Motor Control/Motor Learning, 1993-1996
• California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA B.S., in Physical Education and Kinesiology, 1989-1992
• Ventura College, Ventura, CA Liberal Arts 1987-1989

Sample Courses

• KINE 522 Advanced Biomechanics
• KINE 406 Neuroantomy
• KINE 302 Biomechanics
• KINE 301 Functional Muscle Anatomy
• KINE 311 Strength Training Instruction
• KINE 230 Aquatic Fitness Activities
• Also supervise undergraduate and graduate students involved in research

Teaching Philosophy

Think of your brain as a tool; not just a bucket. A bucket can carry things (theories, facts, concepts), but is limited and will only carry so much. A tool on the other hand can be used to build things and solve problems. On the road of life, develop and carry with you a well crafted set of tools. You will go further, continue to learn, and help more people than you ever will with just a bucket.

Research and Interests

1. Biomechanics of Cycling
2. Muscle stiffness effects on running and jumping performance
3. Dynamics of postural control including gait and locomotion

Notable Academic Appointments and Awards

• 2000-2001 Distinguished Lecturer California Faculty Association California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo --- $ 500
• 1998 Corbett Research Award (LSU) --- $ 2200
• 1997 Corbett Research Award (LSU) --- $ 2200
• Member of the Cal Poly State University Human Subjects Review Committee; Health Professions Steering Committee; Health Professions Resource Committee.
• Member of the Department College Based Fee Committee.
• Faculty Advisor to the Pre-Physical Therapy Club
• Book Reviewer for McGraw-Hill Publishers.

Publication Highlights

• Clark, R. D., Conrad, V., & Hollenbeak, S. (2006). The influence of head orientation during goal-directed walks without vision along a curvilinear path. Journal of Human Movement Studies, 50, 307-320.
• Kinesiology undergraduate Victoria Conrad and graduate student Steven Hollenbeak assisted in the data collection and analysis. This study is a follow up to previous published works that examine sensory integration and goal directed locomotion.
• Clark, R. D., & Sidaway, B. (2001). The influence of head orientation with respect to direction of travel during goal-directed walks without vision. Journal of Human Movement Studies, 41, 151-164. Experiment No. 2 from Doctoral Dissertation completed at Louisiana State University.
• Clark, R. D., & Sidaway, B. (1999). Altered gait and head position effects on goal directed walking without vision. Journal of Human Movement Studies, 37, 107-126.

Presentation Highlights

• Hamm, G., Peterson, J., Repp, R., & Clark, R. D. Human powered vehicle (HPV) ergonomic study project. Presented at the annual SWACSM conference, San Diego, CA, 2007.
• Fortino, W., Clark, R. D., & Hancock, J. The effects of static stretching, passive stretching, or running warm-up on sub-maximal running economy in trained, competitive female, distance runners. Presented at the annual SWACSM conference, San Diego, CA, 2006.
• Fonda, M., Puhl, S., Clark, R. D., Davis, S., Walker, J., & Schaffner, A. Physiological responses of mountain bikers using different bicycle suspension systems on a simulated race course. Presented at the American College of Sports Medicine Annual Meeting, Denver, CO, 2006.
• Fonda, M., Puhl, S., Clark, R. D., & Davis, S., Physiological responses of competitive mountain bikers using different bicycle suspension systems on a simulated cross- country race course. Presented at the annual SWACSM conference, Las Vegas NV, 2005.
• Hall, K. G., A. Black, & R. D. Clark. The speed/accuracy trade-off when teaching young males to pitch in baseball. Presented at the annual NASPSPA conference, Clearwater Beach FL, 2005.
• Tompkins, C. M., & Clark R. D. Effects of three different pre-activity warm-up methods on 100 meter sprint performance in collegiate track athletes. Presented at the annual SWACSM conference, Las Vegas NV, 2004.
• Klier, J, Clark, R. D., & Davis, S. C. Effects of altering prosthetic mass and limb moment of inertia on amputee gait. Presented at the annual SWACSM conference, Las Vegas NV, 2003.

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