In this blog post, we'll delve into five pivotal trends poised to influence sports science in 2024.
As we step into 2024, it is essential for sports science practitioners to remain abreast of emerging trends and technologies that promise to reshape the landscape. This year heralds significant advancements, and understanding them will be crucial for thriving in this dynamic field.
The Technology Tsunami in Sports Science
2024 continues the surge of technological advancement in sports, a movement I term the 'technology tsunami.' Modern sports increasingly rely on innovations to enhance performance, and this year is no exception. Virtual reality (VR) is gaining momentum as a tool for training athletes without physical strain, potentially revolutionising modes of preparation, especially in contact sports.
Wearable devices, already prevalent, are set to become smaller, less intrusive, and more accurate, offering new avenues for data collection. This evolution facilitates a vital dialogue between team-driven and athlete-driven applications of these technologies, a theme we'll revisit in subsequent trends.
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) stands as an indispensable trend this year. With the accumulation of massive data in sports, AI's role becomes increasingly critical in deciphering insights. Collaborations with companies like Zone7, which forecast injury risk, and Springbok Analytics, using AI for MRI analysis, illustrate AI's transformative potential.
The advent of AI tools such as ChatGPT has encouraged a new era of research efficiency. As sports scientists, the ability to harness AI is now a skill, underscoring the necessity for practitioners to enhance their proficiency with these tools. Embracing AI not only amplifies one’s capabilities but may very well distinguish the adept from the obsolete in the sports science arena.
Progress in Women’s Sports
The past year marked unprecedented successes for women's sports, with highlights such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Tour de France Femme capturing audiences worldwide. In 2024, the momentum continues, supported by projections such as Deloitte's revenue estimate surpassing $1 billion for women's elite sport.
Central to this trend is addressing the gender data gap in scientific research. Collaborative efforts, exemplified by initiatives like the Feminae Project and FIFA's Female Athlete Health Project, seek to improve research methodologies and findings in female athlete health, paving the way for higher quality, collaborative research.
For more information on the three trends above along with the final two trends - the team behind the team and athlete data access and ownership - watch the video in full below:
As we navigate the complexities and opportunities presented by these trends, staying informed and adaptive remains crucial. For further insight, including the ten challenges in sports science, download my free ebook by subscribing to the Global Performance Insights blog. Additionally, check out the linked video for an engaging exploration of these topics. Ensure you subscribe for more sports science insights to stay ahead in this ever-evolving field.
🎥 Intro to ChatGPT: https://youtu.be/jNdGaiHQAd8?si=yqrQkzVlCbT1rRti
🎥 ChatGPT Free vs Plus: https://youtu.be/-U4ero5R0Sg?si=PusEYC5MtOxNQ_Q9
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