Modern Technology

• modern technology

  • advanced massively over the 21st century
  • has affected elite-level sport as well as participants reflecting different levels of performance
• modern technology in elite sport

  • can help when assessing whether someone has the potential to be an elite athlete
  • can be used to assess health, through screening devices
  • help for disabled performers who wish to reach elite levels
• benefits for elite athletes

  • improved performance through training for competitions
  • increased access for disabilities & all year-round participation
  • increased safety in competition & training, such as monitoring health
  • increase accuracy
• modern technology for general participation

  • improved access to buildings such as ramps for wheelchair access
  • improved facilities for abled & disabled athletes
  • redevelopment of high performance gyms
  • rehabilitation & medical suites
• improved surfaces

  • improved sports surfaces & artificial lighting - low maintenance & cost, boosts participation
  • rebound & slip resistant - improved shock absorption, ease of movement & prevention of injury
  • modern flood lighting - allows greater use of facilities such as at night
• improved equipment

  • helps performers train more effectively - enables high levels of performance
  • improved designs of sports equipment - starting blocks, clothes shoes
• altitude training

  • boosts fitness levels
• precision hydration

  • works out sodium concentration levels for hydration during performance
• hypoxic chambres

  • improves oxygen uptake
• physiological testing

  • identifies performers strengths & weaknesses
• performance equipment

  • adapted to improve general participation
  • asics tailored running shoes
• general safety

  • monitor safety of performers
  • HR, blood pressure, body temp
• limiting participation

  • developments in modern technology are expensive - inequality for elite & recreational performers
  • elites have sponsors & funding to provide technology
  • disabled performers lack basic facilities & equipment which limits access
• electronic devices & games consoles

  + can increase knowledge on sport & help improve performance

  + playing virtual games/sport may inspire real life participation

  _ devices may be used as a substitute

  _ use of devices reduces time available for physical activity
• impact of modern technology

  • seen as hindering to the likelihood of fair results
  • timing devices, detecting foul play
• impact on officials/refs

  + instant replay & technological aids help make right decisions

  + umpires are advised through wireless communication technology

  _ increases pressure for officials

  _ media can highlight mistakes

  _ judgement from public
• impact on performance enhancing substances

  • developing doping techniques
  • gene therapy - improves sports performance
  • genetic enhancement - potentially improves performance
• impact on entertainment

  • enhances or hinders enjoyment of spectating sport

  + increased entertainment value like live action replays to relive successful moments

  + greater understanding of techniques & rules allows greater insight & developed interest

  + motion capture analysis to evaluate performances

  _ constant interruptions

  _ spoils entertainment value

  _ reduces live audience attendances