Sports science in all fields

09.30.2021, by

The presence of scientists within elite training squads has become increasingly commonplace. Among other things, they study pedal strokes in cycling, muscle exertion in running, and decision-making processes in basketball. Discover some of the images highlighting the role played by researchers in sport.

During a race, a cyclist’s posture is key to optimising speed. The French cycling federation (FFC) works hand in hand with scientists to help athletes perfect theirs.

Cyril Frésillon / LAAS / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode

Researchers use a rowing machine to record and study athletes’ movements and power generation abilities, looking to maximise performance and avoid injury.

Cyril Frésillon / Pprime / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode

To obtain a complete overview of a cyclist’s movements, scientists use three different techniques including motion capture technology, as well as muscle exertion and pedalling speed monitoring.

Cyril Frésillon / ISM / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode

Scientists have developed the SmartBoard, a sensor-equipped hangboard used by climbers to test and improve their performance. Athletes from the FFME French mountaineering and climbing federation used the board to prepare for the 2020 Olympic Games.

Cyril Frésillon / ISM / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode

With the help of his team, Vance Bergeron developed the Carbon Trike, which he rode in the functional electric stimulation (FES) bike race during the 2016 edition of the Cybathlon, where disabled athletes, aided by technology, participate in sporting events.

Frédérique Plas / UMR5672 / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode

Using the virtual reality simulator Virtushoot, scientists are able study how basketball players prepare for a penalty free throw. During this extremely technical action, in just a few seconds, a player assesses several parameters such as the distance, the angle, and the height of the basket.

Cyril Frésillon / ISM / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode

By immersing a goalkeeper inside a handball court, virtual reality makes it possible to study the techniques used in blocking shots.

Cyril Frésillon / ISM / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode

To elucidate the mechanics of running, researchers use sensors to measure muscle electrical activity in runners.

Cyril Frésillon / ISM / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode

This treadmill, equipped with an anti-gravity air chamber, can simulate running on the moon surface. By removing the effects of gravity, scientists are able to study muscle behaviour in runners – yet another illustration of the boundless collaboration between science and sport.

Cyril Frésillon / ISM / CNRS Photothèque

Slideshow mode