Sports technology and sports science revolutionize everything-athlete performance, fan engagement and even the whole playing field-literally and metaphorically.
Here are seven sports science and sports technology trends and innovations to look out for in sports apps this 2024:
1. AI Sports Coaching Applications
Artificial intelligence becomes a game-changer in sports science, especially when merged with sports biomechanics. AI coaching apps use computer vision with real-time pose estimation, therefore giving insights into athletes’ movements in real time, thus enabling them to give useful feedback for the improvement of his technique and prevention of injuries. Other apps, such as BeOne Sports, are already adapting AI to merge motion-capture technology with data analytics to improve training and rehabilitation, revolutionizing how athletes train worldwide, even in emerging markets such as sports science in India.
2. Wearable Tech And Performance Analytics
Wearables have become increasingly integral to sports science. From heart rate to motion to muscle performance, these devices record everything and provide much better data for performance analysis. AI assistants help the sports technology sector process such data to optimize training and game strategies. Already, companies like PlaySight are using sensors to automatically track player actions during training. This trend is picking up pace in India’s sports technology sector as the demand for such devices increases.
3. Immersive Broadcasting With AR
Augmented reality is transforming how sport fans connect with sports broadcasts. For instance, in 2023, Apple and Disney joined forces to bring AR to live sports together. Fans will enjoy several games as well as real-time stats during live events. ESPN has also filed applications to embrace AR for the betterment of data overlays. This experience is a great illustration of how sports technology brings fans closer to the game and fast-pace rising in popularity worldwide, including in countries where sports science in India are on the rise.
4. Video Assistant Referees (VAR)
Video-assisted refereeing is part of sports technology that is assisting in better decision-making in football and F1. AI systems review game footage to ensure calls are not only fair but also correct. The growing trend of VAR application in other sports points to the fact that sports science and sports technology are well exploited to ensure games are purer in terms of integrity.
5. Digital Injury Prevention
Prevention of injury has now become the objective for sports science and sports technology. This can be envisioned with the tools provided such as with the Digital Athlete by the NFL that employs sensors to observe the health conditions of athletes and predict future injuries through biomechanics and performance. Other leagues take up similar systems such as in sports technology in India where wearable sensors can provide healthier insights to the safety and well-being of the players.
6. Talent Scouting With The Aid Of Data
AI and analytics transform the way teams scout talent, using sports biomechanics as well as other performance metrics in an expanded criteria for recruitment. How beautifully AI is being used by certain tools that process player statistics from professional leagues and universities to evaluate better talent? In India, tapping into these advances, new doors open for young athletes and coaches.
7. Virtual Reality And Game Simulations
Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly becoming an essential tool in sports technology and the training arena. The possibility of creating real-game scenarios to practice and hone skills in a controlled, immersive environment is now feasible. The NFL employs VR for quarterback training; similar technology is being extended to other sports. The role of VR in sports science is expanding and its use in sports technology in India will increase as the nation further extends its embrace of advanced training tools.
Sports science and sports technology will continue to grow, forever changing the way that fans, athletes and teams engage with sports. From sports biomechanics to AI-driven training, the future of sports apps is bright, especially as emerging markets such as sports science in India will start to get them more involved in everyday practice.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
