Technology in Sport Performance 

Analysis of Personal and External Factors affecting Sport Performance

Athletic performance has been critically affected by technological advancements; however, much research goes into all aspects of performance that could augment or debilitate execution (Dahl, 2013). Identifying factors that impact the use of sport technology will enable individuals to become self-aware of potential barricades that fluctuate accuracy of equipment in a practical setting.

For example, sleep is a huge factor that could impact use of virtual reality, due to the need of quick reactions to bodily movements and decision-making. This may impact use of sport performance as VR enables live action play and practice, to analyze movements to perfect techniques (Sokołowska, 2023). Through use of motion capture, if an athlete is sleep deprived their coach may struggle to adjust training plans and technique, which may demotivate their physical abilities and game strategy (Trumper, 2023). As VR also enables simulations of hyper-realism to permit athletes to train beyond real life, this would not be achieved as highly if experiencing sleep deprivation which could influence their potential to refine their performance. 

Another factor is appropriate clothing and footwear during VR as this has shown through a journal of sport sciences to improve athletic performance. According to (Malik, 2021) wearing comfortable clothing and footwear will not restrict movement, therefore an athlete will participate with a full virtual experience, gaining all benefits to perform effectively. Without this, an athlete would not gain realistic training through simulation of game scenarios, which could hinder performance for skill growth (Mons, 2020). Correct attire can also lower muscle fatigue, improve biomechanics, and offer better stability (Yellowbrick, 2023). This is because quality apparel can augment performance and drive an athlete's limits further. Without wearing correct attire an athlete may practice movements with restricted ability, placing stress on limbs, increasing risks of injury (Brownlee, 2022).  

If an athlete depicts poor nutrition this can negatively impact use of VR. This can result to fatigue, dehydration, and poor health, which may impact athletic performance. Having a nutritious diet can ensure athletes have enough strength to meet demands of exercise, without this an athlete is unable to perform to their highest potential (Nutrition X, 2023). According to (Creative8, 2019) nutrient deficiency can influence decision-making, muscle impaired function, and decrease concentration. Therefore, when using VR training this could influence their athletic abilities to perform a skill effectively, upsurging risk of injury on playing field (Zeplin, 2014). This could also impact trainers' ability to gather accurate data on a players timing, responses, bodily movements. As poor diet will influence this as the coach may struggle to analyse a player's strengths and weaknesses effectively with invalid results (Anon, 2022).