Science and technology have begun to play an important part in the
    sports arena. Computers can now analyze body movements to enable
athletes to compete on the highest level. For example, a computer can be

                 used to analyze a pitcher's movement to understand how the best pitchers throw.

Mentors and students should discuss other ways that technology has improved sports.
Or, if you don't agree that technology has improved sports, provide reasons for your position.

For more information and an interesting look at sports and technology visit the website: The WhyFiles (http://whyfiles.org/019olympic/main.html). Although the Olympic Games held in Atlanta
are a distant memory, you might be surprised to see the technological innovations that helped
make these games possible.

In your opinion, has technology enhanced sports and athletic competition? Why or why not?

Imagine walking into a large sporting goods store and trying to pick out the best pair of running shoes. How can you decide what pair will work best for you?

Visit the Nike (www.nike.com) website and see how technology can help you make the right decision. When you get to the Nike site, select either men or women's footwear. Then click on the criteria that is most important to you. Watch technology make your decision easier by providing you with important information!

Think about the various types of athletic shoes worn for sporting activities. Why do the treads look different? Do you think that the treads impact performance?

Positive thinking can help you overcome many obstacles and help you excel in whatever you
choose to do. Many professional athletes -- whether gymnasts, golfers, or divers -- imagine themselves performing successfully before they actually attempt physical feats.

Choose an activity or sport and describe how the power of positive thinking can improve performance. Have you ever had an experience in which positive thinking made a difference?
Share your experience with one another.

For more information, visit the WhyFiles
(http://whyfiles.org/019olympic/sport_psych1.html).

One of the newest professions in the field of sports science is biomechanic. If mechanics fix cars, what do you think biomechanics fix? For more information on Biomechanics, visit the WhyFiles (http://whyfiles.org/019olympic/biomech2.html)

After reading, share with one another a fact or two that you recently learned about this new profession. What did you find most interesting? Share your responses!

Have you ever taken a minute to think about the connections between physics and sports?
The way you throw a frisbee or your famous curve ball are all affected by the principles of physics. For more information, visit the Principles of Aerodynamics (http://wings.avkids.com/Book/Sports/beginner/index.html).

From this website, choose a sport to explore and share what you learn with each other.