55.3 Billion Worth Company Helped Michael Phelps’ Teammates Secure Olympic Medals- Here’s How

Swimmers who compete globally know that a hundredth of a second can mean the difference between a podium finish and return home without a medal. Therefore, athletes constantly try to improve their time in the pool. And sometimes, technology can offer a helping hand, as some of Michael Phelps’ teammates found out before heading to the Rio Olympics.

Our species have come a long way with science and technology. And every day, we reach new milestones making our lives a little easier. Moreover, we have come a long way with the help of technological know-how.

Technology helped Michael Phelps’ teammates to improve their performances

Technology helps us improve various aspects of our lives. And the events leading to the US team clinching the gold in the 4×100 freestyle relay at the Rio Olympics provide an insight into it.

Before heading to the 2016 Olympic Games, the US team’s swimmers Nathan Adrian and Maya DiRado were part of a drive. It aimed to understand the power of the dolphin kick using advanced technology. And the BMW Performance Team led the research.

At the time, there was a consensus that the dolphin kick played a vital role in enhancing the performance of swimmers. Therefore, the team aimed to understand this with the help of a Motion Tracking System software designed by the $55.3 billion company to help achieve this goal.

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In the heart of the system laid two algorithms that enabled the research team to assemble and study the data by tracking a swimmer’s motion. With the software’s help, the team could gather information, including kick depth and rate metrics while performing the dolphin kick.

Did it help the swimmers at the meet?

The team tailored the dolphin kick as per the requirements of the athletes. And it led to some exclusive results. The athletes participating in the study had an impressive meet in Rio. Adrian won two golds and two bronze in his events. And DiRado clinched two gold, a silver, and a bronze in her sole Olympic meet.

Phelps and Caeleb Dressel were also part of the relay team that featured Nathan. However, the skills and pace of all swimmers determine the winners of a team-based event. Therefore, Adrian’s contribution played a significant role in the team winning the relay.

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Besides, both swimmers participating in the study clinched medals in individual events.