Wearable Technology in Elite Sport: A Critical Examination

This book critically examines how wearable devices quantify the body, raising concerns about privacy, surveillance, and the potential impact on mental health. It also explores the use of wearables in elite sport settings and offers insights for self-trackers and practitioners.

Format: Hardback
Length: 158 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

With the increasing quantification of various aspects of our lives, this book emerges as a crucial exploration of the profound implications of wearable devices in measuring and quantifying our bodies. It delves into the troubling ways in which these devices perpetuate problematic perceptions and representations of our physical selves. By undertaking a sustained critical evaluation, the book seeks to shed light on the ways in which wearable technologies exacerbate existing inequalities, perpetuate surveillance, and undermine our autonomy.

In its examination of the use of wearable devices in elite sport settings, the book offers a valuable perspective. It sheds light on the ways in which these devices are employed to optimize performance, monitor athletes' health, and enhance coaching strategies. However, the book also raises concerns about the potential risks and ethical implications associated with such practices. It questions whether the pursuit of athletic excellence should be prioritized at the expense of individual privacy, bodily integrity, and the ethical boundaries of technology.

Furthermore, the book aims to provide insights for self-trackers and practitioners alike. It explores how wearables can be designed and utilized in a way that is sensitive to the diverse challenges and experiences faced by individuals in their everyday lives. The book emphasizes the importance of considering the social, cultural, and ethical dimensions of wearable technology and seeks to foster a dialogue that promotes responsible and ethical practices in the field.

In conclusion, this book serves as a vital contribution to the ongoing discourse on the role of wearable devices in shaping our physical and digital selves. It offers a critical evaluation of the potential benefits and risks associated with these technologies, while also providing valuable insights for self-trackers and practitioners. By raising awareness and promoting ethical considerations, the book contributes to a more informed and responsible approach to the use of wearable devices in our modern world.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032026404