Technical support

The key role of technology in sport is in the enhancement and evaluation of sporting performance

Sports technology can be used to improve performance in 2 main ways:

• helping the performer to perfect technique through the use of analysis
• refining the playing kit and equipment used to give the performer a competitive edge

Technological advances have been had such an impact that the rules have been adapted to keep up with the developments

The use of technology has caused some debate whether it fits fair play and the spirit of sport as those who cant afford to access it, technology may be seen as cheating

Sports manufacturers e.g. Nike and Speedo spend million of dollars each year on research to develop footware and swinwear that could help shave milliseconds off world records

Sports involving gross motor skills e.g. sprinting, technology has less impact than in sports where more techniques and fine motor skills are required

• elite performers have their training schedule prepared by sports science experts,to ensure they are doing the right kinds of training to match the specific demands of their sport and position, so that they will be in a peak physical and mental state for their competitions
• their diet and fluid intake is measured, monitored and adjusted by sports scientists
• their clothing and equipment has been designed by sports scientists to ensure they can perform at their optimum level
• once theyhave completed their performance, stasticians, video reviewersand coaches will analyse their performance, giving detailed feedback and advice about what went right and wrong, and how they can improve in the future

Exercise physiologist - optimise training objectives

Sports psychologist - help develop mental preparation for competition

Nutritionist - help choose correct food and fluids at the right amount

Biomechanist - develop better and more efficient techniques

Sports vision specialist - assessment and enhancement of a performers use of vision

Sports podiatrist - analysing how the performers feet strike the ground

• In modern sport the provision of high quality coaching, science and medical support services has become essential in the preparation of elite sports performers
• Sport now plays a massive role in most modern global societies
• Their are 2 main models in global sport - Centralised model - supported via the state, appoints a central body to oversee the management of the countrys elite sports programme - Decentralised model - no single agency takes control, but there is a developed system of supporting elite sport through higher education institutions
• Any young performer who shows potential are encouraged to attend regular training sessions at regional centres of sporting excellence
• Most of these training centres often represent the first steps towards a career in elite sport
• Academies usually target young people aged 14-18 and allow performers to combine elite sports training with some form of education
• Most national institutes and programmes also support athletes in managing their lifestyle, helping them to create an effective life-work balence combining training, competing and education or career with social life and relaxation time
• Support is also given to athletes nearing the end of their career