As Olympic competition becomes increasingly intense each year, athletes’ training methods must evolve accordingly. While spectacular feats of athleticism and inspiring stories of overcoming obstacles often come to mind when we think of the Games, there’s a quieter yet crucial element at play: mathematics.
Take Katie Douglass, for example. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, she clinched gold in the 200-meter breaststroke thanks to her adept use of statistics. By analyzing data from her training sessions, Katie fine-tuned her performance. “I wear devices during practice that collect data on distance per stroke, yardage, and speed,” she explains. “By reviewing this data over weeks and months, I can track improvements and identify factors that might be affecting my stroke.”
But it’s not just athletes who rely on math. Judges also use intricate scoring systems to evaluate performances. For instance, diving scores are calculated using specific mathematical formulas. In swimming and track, photo-finish technology leverages mathematical algorithms to determine exact finishing times.
These examples underscore the critical role STEM education plays in shaping future champions. As budget cuts and shifting education policies threaten STEM programs, it’s vital to advocate for their continued support.
The aspiring Olympians and analysts of tomorrow are currently sitting in classrooms, dreaming of gold medals and global adventures. To help these students push boundaries both in academics and athletics, we must ensure they have access to high-quality STEM education. Investing in this area is not just an educational necessity but a way to support future generations in achieving greatness.
References:
Pacific Science Center. “Summer Olympics.” Pacific Science Center, pacificsciencecenter.org/blog/summer-olympics/.
The New York Times. “How Data Analytics Is Changing the Swimming World.” The New York Times, July 29, 2024, nytimes.com/2024/07/29/world/olympics/olympics-swimming-data-analytics.html.
Women’s Health Magazine. “How Kate Douglass Is Using Data to Revolutionize Olympic Swimming.” Women’s Health Magazine, August 20, 2024, womenshealthmag.com/life/a61764116/kate-douglass-data-olympics/.
