Which colors do you don on game day? Do you wear purple and gold for the Lakers? How about green for the Packers? Will we see you in red and white for the Red Sox? Fans of sports worldwide wear the same colors as their beloved athletes. We pay a lot of attention to the attire athletes wear. However, many individuals are surprised to learn about the extent of technology that athletes utilize!
Are you aware of the number of steps you take in a day? You may have noticed people wearing Fitbits or App Watches on their wrists. Numerous athletes use fitness trackers that provide them with even more data. Wouldn’t it be useful to know how much sleep you need to feel completely refreshed the following day? The WHOOP fitness tracker does exactly that. It has gained popularity among athletes due to its ability to track workouts and provide rest recommendations.
Do you wear sunglasses when you’re outdoors? Many athletes wear smart glasses for outdoor exercises. Smart glasses do much more than just protect against the Sun! They also display information on their lenses. Athletes wearing such glasses can view a map while running so they don’t get lost. They can also see their heart rate and step count directly on the lens. They can even stream music or make phone calls!
Can you maintain a tall and sturdy posture like a mountain? Do you know how to do the downward facing dog pose? Smart yoga pants can assist with both of these poses! They contain sensors that notify you when your yoga pose isn’t quite correct. This is only one type of athletic clothing that incorporates technology! Numerous athletes wear recovery pajamas that aid in better sleep! These pajamas use infrared energy to facilitate cell growth and leave the wearer feeling energized upon waking up. They even help speed up the healing process of sore muscles!
Does wearable technology provide athletes with too much of an advantage? Some individuals think so. The National Basketball Association (NBA) has prohibited players from wearing the WHOOP watch during games. In 2010, the Olympics banned a popular swimsuit. They claimed that the swimsuit gave athletes an unfair advantage by increasing the flow of oxygen to their muscles. Additionally, it positioned the swimmers’ bodies in a more hydrodynamic manner compared to other swimsuits, making it too easy for some swimmers to outperform others.
What type of technology do you utilize? Do you track your steps using a Fitbit? Do you sleep in infrared pajamas? What about shoes that enhance your running speed? The next time you watch your favorite athletes, pay closer attention. What type of technology are they utilizing?
Give It a Try
Before attempting these activities, seek the guidance of an adult friend or family member!
Nowadays, technology surrounds us, making it challenging to remember to prioritize physical activity over screen time. Check out these Fitness Apps for Kids and Families! Which of these apps would you like to try? Can you engage in any of these activities without the use of technology? Discuss your preferences with a friend or family member.
The use of technology in sports has both advantages and disadvantages. Before forming an opinion, familiarize yourself with both sides of the argument. Then, decide whether you believe technology should be permitted in competitive sports. Write a paragraph supporting your viewpoint.
What types of technology do you regularly use? Do you incorporate technology into your exercise routine? How about your learning process? Talk to a friend or family member about the technology you use and inquire about their own usage and purposes.
Recommended Sources
- https://www.businessinsider.com/smart-clothes-with-technology-2018-4 (accessed 11 Mar., 2019)
- https://www.solos-wearables.com/ (accessed 11 Mar., 2019)
- https://www.fitnesseducation.edu.au/blog/industry-trends/technology-in-sports-clothing-do-we-really-need-it/ (accessed 11 Mar., 2019)
- https://www.wareable.com/fashion/best-smart-rings-1340 (accessed 11 Mar., 2019)
FAQ
1. What is wearable technology in sports?
Wearable technology in sports refers to the use of electronic devices or gadgets that athletes wear to monitor and track their performance, health, and fitness levels. These devices are designed to collect data such as heart rate, distance covered, speed, and calories burned, providing valuable insights to athletes and coaches.
2. What are some examples of wearable technology used by athletes?
Athletes use various types of wearable technology, including fitness trackers, smartwatches, heart rate monitors, and GPS devices. Fitness trackers are popular among athletes as they can monitor steps taken, sleep patterns, and even provide personalized workout recommendations. Smartwatches offer similar features but often include additional functionalities like message notifications and music control.
3. How does wearable technology help athletes improve performance?
Wearable technology helps athletes improve performance by providing real-time data and insights. Athletes can track their heart rate, pace, and other metrics to optimize training and prevent overexertion. It also allows coaches to monitor athletes remotely and make data-driven decisions regarding training plans and performance analysis.
4. Are there any safety concerns related to wearable technology in sports?
While wearable technology offers many benefits, there are some safety concerns to consider. Athletes need to ensure that the devices they use are comfortable and do not cause any discomfort or skin irritation. It is also important to follow manufacturer guidelines for device usage and charging to avoid any potential risks.
5. Can wearable technology be used in team sports?
Yes, wearable technology can be used in team sports as well. In team sports, devices like GPS trackers can provide valuable insights into player positioning, speed, and distance covered during matches. This information can help coaches analyze team tactics, make substitutions, and identify areas for improvement.
6. What is the future of wearable technology in sports?
The future of wearable technology in sports is promising. Advancements in sensor technology and data analytics will continue to improve the accuracy and usefulness of wearable devices. We can expect to see more integration of wearable technology with virtual reality and augmented reality, providing athletes with immersive training experiences and detailed performance analysis.
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