Physical Education · Ch 1 — Changing Trends & Career in Physical Education
Wearable Gears and Sports Equipment
Wearable Gears and Sports Equipment
With advances in technology and sports science, the equipment used in sport has changed in material, shape, size and weight, and a whole range of wearable gears and devices now touches almost every aspect of an athlete's preparation. These changes help athletes improve performance, prevent injury, help officials deliver correct and fast judgments, and - with the media coverage of athletes - also improve aesthetics. The textbook discusses them by purpose.
1. Safety
Improvements in the quality of sports helmets have made them lighter and stronger so they can take the impact of a ball. Gloves and guards are also made of modern materials to give players extra protection. Better safety gear lets sportspersons play at their peak without fear of injury.
2. Performance
Changes in design have produced new attire such as modern swimsuits that counter friction and improve performance. Boots and footwear are aerodynamically designed to improve the movement efficiency of athletes.
3. Monitoring & Judgement
Wearable gears such as GPS devices and sensors that measure body chemistry and physiological status are a great advantage to athletes and coaches, who can monitor performance and take timely remedial action - turning training into a data-guided process.