Paris 2024: Are We Going to See Any World Records Breaking?

The Role of Aerodynamics in Track and Field Sports

With the Olympics fast approaching, the excitement is palpable as athletes from around the globe prepare to showcase their prowess. As we anticipate record-breaking performances, it’s essential to understand the science behind these feats. One aspect that often plays a decisive role in setting world records is aerodynamics.

Aerodynamics, the study of the behavior of air as it interacts with solid objects, is surprisingly really important in some disciplines like track and field sports. Understanding how air resistance and wind assistance affect an athlete’s performance can provide insights into what it takes to break world records.

1. Wind Assistance in Sprints and Jumps

In track events such as the 100m and 200m sprints, as well as field events like the long jump, a downstream wind can significantly enhance performance. According to regulations, a tailwind of up to 2.0 meters per second (m/s) is allowable for record purposes. This tailwind reduces air resistance, allowing athletes to move more quickly and efficiently. Most world records in these events have been set under conditions close to this wind limit.

2. Air Resistance and Running Efficiency

For longer track events, such as the 400m and 800m races, minimizing air resistance becomes a key factor in performance. Athletes and their coaches use various techniques to reduce drag, including optimizing body position and stride mechanics. Even the design of running gear and shoes incorporates aerodynamic principles to help runners cut through the air more smoothly.

3. Aerodynamics in Throwing Events

Throwing events like the javelin, discus, and hammer throw also rely heavily on aerodynamic principles. The shape and design of these implements are optimized to reduce drag and increase lift, allowing them to travel farther. Athletes work on perfecting their technique to ensure that they release these implements at the optimal angle and speed, maximizing their aerodynamic efficiency.

The Role of Technology

Advancements in technology have played a significant role in enhancing our understanding of aerodynamics in sports. High-speed cameras, wind tunnels, and computer simulations allow for detailed analysis of an athlete’s form and technique. Software for aerodynamic simulations, enables athletes and coaches to model and predict the effects of various conditions on performance.

Stadium Design and Local Wind Conditions

The geometry, orientation, and overall placement of the stadium play a crucial role in the performance of athletes in track and field due to varying wind conditions. The design of the stadium can create different wind patterns, which can either aid or hinder an athlete’s performance. By understanding these factors, we can better predict and optimize conditions for peak athletic achievement.

At NablaFlow, since we care highly about sports, we dug a bit deeper into the topic. Prior to the Olympics, we conducted a detailed wind simulation of the Stade de France stadium, in which several olympic events are going to take place, using real-time weather data. This simulation allows us to assess how wind conditions inside the stadium may affect athletes during their performances, providing valuable insights for coaches and competitors alike.

Picture 1: Wind Speed Amplification around the Stade de France Stadium. The Wind Speed Amplification (UA = (Ulocal - Uref/Uref) * 100 %) shows how the wind speed is affected by topological or structural features. It is given in percentage of regional reference wind speed (Uref) at the same height.

Picture 2: Wind Speed around the Stade de France Stadium. The Wind Speed is the local wind speed (Ulocal) based on the reference wind speed at 10 meters height.

Picture 3: Wind Speed around the Stade de France Stadium. The Turbulent Speed (VTKE = TKE) is a measure of the average wind speed fluctuation (u′) due to turbulence in the fluid. It is the square root of turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) such that the unit is given in m/s.

Conclusion

The upcoming Olympic Games promise thrilling displays of athletic prowess, amplified by advancements in aerodynamic science and technology. By embracing these principles, athletes can optimize their performances and potentially rewrite record books. As the world tunes in to witness history unfold in Paris.