Friday, September 07, 2012

Role of Technology at the London 2012 Paralympics: Do athletes from developed countries have an unfair advantage?

re advances in technology giving players in sports an unfair advantage? The Paralympics has witnessed a slew of cutting-edge technologies that has helped athletes push themselves to the limit. The carbon fiber technology used in running prosthesis is taken to the next level. The latest running prosthesis such as those used by Oscar Pistorious is able to deliver an amazing 92% elastic energy.

Silicone liners and sockets used in artificial limbs have improved comfort levels and ensure that blisters are eliminated. Moreover, the suction valves used in prosthesis have improved the connection between body and artificial limb. BMW engineers have used a motor sport technology to make it easier for the British paralympic basketball team. The engineers have designed a foam seat with bounce for players. Wheel-chairs have gone through a sea change, thanks to technology again. Carbon fiber wheel chairs are zippier and much lighter making it easy for the user to maneuver.

No doubt, competition is getting tougher at the Paralympics, but it is fair to say that developed countries are making use of high priced technology to gain an unfair advantage over less developed economies that are not able to spend huge sums of money on acquiring cutting-edge technologies for their athletes at the Paralympics. Should new rules be implemented at the Paralympics in regard with uniformity of technologies?

Related posts:

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  2. Qualcomm Inc. to bring out LTE technology by 2012
  3. Saab sets up technology center at Hyderabad
  4. Disney gets the sparkle with breakthrough CGI technology
  5. London Olympics 2012 Wrestling Silver medalist Sushil Kumar to get 1.5 Crore from Haryana government for his achievement

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