The technology behind the 2012 summer of sport

This summer, the Olympic and Paralympic games have showcased and celebrated incredible feats of the human body. In addition to the skill and endurance of the athletes, science and technology played a key role.

In many events, coloured Kinesio tape was used to help prevent injury without limiting movement or range. This specially designed porous fabric allows air to circulate over an athlete’s skin to avoid overheating and ease muscle strain. Its benefits have yet to be conclusively proven, but many athletes swear to its effectiveness.

Paralympic events like basketball and rugby showcased advanced wheelchairs, with improved streamlining and tighter turning circles. Sprinters ran on carbon-fibre legs that provided the strength and spring needed to reach record-breaking speeds. Visually impaired athletes relied upon simpler devices – for instance, the flexible rubber tubing that kept sprinters attached to their guide runners, or the ball bearings that ensured audible movement of the ball in goalball.

In closely run races, photofinish technology was needed to determine who was victorious – for instance, less than a millisecond separated Switzerland’s Nicola Spirig and Sweden’s Lisa Norden in the Olympic triathlon. Even the colourful nails sported by many athletes used lacquer and silicon technology to ensure no chips and smudges from sweat, movement or water damage. The dedication of the athletes, with a helping hand from technology, made for a thrilling and inspiring season of sport.