New Delhi, India

In recent years, the world of athletics has witnessed a seismic shift in how athletes train, recover, and perform. At the heart of this transformation is the integration of sports science and cutting-edge technology. From wearable devices and advanced training tools to innovative recovery techniques and personalised nutrition plans, the possibilities for optimising athletic performance have never been more exciting.

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Varun Shetty, co-founder, director and high-performance coach at Invictus Performance Lab, shared transformative insights into the profound effects of sports science while speaking to WION. He highlights the significance of wearables, training technologies and recovery tools, showcasing how Invictus is leading the charge towards a future of data-driven, science-backed, personalised training.

Question: How is sports science transforming the way athletes train and recover?

The world of sports is undergoing a thrilling transformation, thanks to the powerful combination of sports science and cutting-edge technology. Imagine athletes harnessing wearable devices and innovative training tools that unlock a new realm of performance enhancement.

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These game-changing advancements aren't just about raw physical ability; they’re about leveraging data-driven insights that can elevate training, speed up recovery, and boost overall athletic excellence. As athletes tap into these revolutionary resources, the landscape of sports is evolving into a realm of unparalleled potential and achievement.

Question: Can you elaborate on the impact of wearable technology on athletes?

Wearable technology has redefined athletic training, acting as a personal coach and performance strategist right on your wrist. Devices like the Polar H10 and Garmin HRM-Pro dive deep into heart rate zones, enabling athletes to fine-tune every workout for maximum effectiveness and safety. Smartwatches go even further, offering a wealth of insights—tracking GPS metrics, VO2 max, and even stress levels—serving as an all-in-one health and performance companion.

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Sleep trackers like the Oura Ring also play a pivotal role, aligning recovery strategies with training demands to optimize rest and regeneration. These cutting-edge tools empower athletes to train smarter, reduce injury risks, and turn raw data into actionable insights that accelerate progress. Harness the power of wearables and take your performance to the next level.

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Question: What role does training technology play in improving athletic performance?

The evolution of training technology has unlocked exciting possibilities for measuring and enhancing athletic performance in ways we never thought possible. Advanced tools like force plates, GPS trackers, accelerometers, and velocity-based training (VBT) sensors are transforming how athletes train.

For instance, force plates gauge power output during various movements, allowing for tailored strength and explosiveness training that focuses on individual needs. GPS trackers analyze movement patterns on the field, paving the way for game-specific agility drills that can provide a competitive edge. VBT sensors meticulously track lifting velocity, ensuring that athletes produce optimal power with every rep.