2.8. Technology

Question 1

what does technology in sport refer to

Answer 1

man-made ergogenic aids that are designed to enhance an athlete’s performance both in training and during competition

also allows coaches and sports scientists to monitor the performance of elite athletes with maximum accuracy and make more accurate training programmes and tactical/technical advice

Question 2

which populations does technology impact

Answer 2

performers
coaches
officials
spectators

Question 3

what does the use of technology focus on

Answer 3

marginal gains and the use of commercialisation of these products sometimes creates a culture of the product not performer

Question 4

use of technology for performers

Answer 4

• pre, during & post competition
• specifically target key aspects in training
• analysis of performance
• analysis of opposition & advancements in coaching
• to increase safety in training & competition

it will support them with
- training & recovery
- equipment & clothing
- optimise technique
- analyse themself & opposition

Question 5

how has improved protective equipment increased safety for athletes

Answer 5

• helmets use shock absorbing foam & carbon fibre to reduce concussion risk
• mouth guards are custom 3D fitted to detect impact, protect teeth & reduce jaw injuries
• shin guards & body armour that is lighter but stronger improving protection without restricting movement

Question 6

how has safer playing surfaces & facilities increased safety for athletes

Answer 6

• artificial turf provides level surfaces reducing slips & ligament injuries
• advanced drainage systems prevent waterlogging & dangerous playing situations
• shock absorbing track reduces impact & stress on joints & lower limb injuries

Question 7

how has medical & rehab technology increased safety for athletes

Answer 7

• MRI & ultrasounds allow early & accurate injury diagnosis
• cryotherapy & compression boots speed up recovery & reduce inflammation
• GPS & load monitoring systems help medical staff prevent overtraining & overuse injuries

Question 8

how has performance analysis & monitoring increased safety for athletes

Answer 8

• video analysis detects poor technique that could cause injury (eg landing mechanics)
• wearable technology monitors heart rate, fatigue, & workload
• coaches can adjust training to avoid burnout or stress injuries

Question 9

how has officiating & rule enforcement increased safety for athletes

Answer 9

• VAR, Hawkeye & goal line technology reduces dangerous play from going unpunished
• concussion protocols supported by video replay ensures players are removed when necessary

Question 10

how has technology increased safety for athletes AO3

Answer 10

• improves safety but risk isn’t entirely eliminated
• access can be unequal at lower levels with less funding
• over reliance may reduce awareness

Question 11

use of technology for coaches & sports scientists

Answer 11

• maximise potential of athletes
• analyse opposition
• performance monitoring & analysis
• biomechanical analysis
• quantitative data
• nutritional monitoring
• recovery management
• communication & collaboration

Question 12

use of technology for officials

Answer 12

• communicate with other officials & fans (eg after VAR decision to explain judgement)
• decision making is more objective & accurate
• pre-match analysis for refs to prepare & be in best position/knowledge for match

Question 13

use of technology for spectators

Answer 13

• camera coverage
• statistical information
• interactive software
• digital media
• social media

Question 14

use of technology on general population/participation

Answer 14

improvements
- access
- facilities
- equipment
- safety
- monitoring health

disads
- cost
- limited range of alternatives

Question 15

what is technological doping

Answer 15

using advanced equipment, clothing or mechanical devices to gain an unfair competitive advantage

Question 16

examples of technological doping

Answer 16

• running shoes with carbon fibre plates & energy return foam (reduce fatigue & improve running economy)
• full body swimsuits (reduce drag & increase buoyancy)
• paralympic technology (prosthetics/wheelchairs provide greater energy efficiency)
• cycling (concealed motors to provide power assistance)