Sport Science Season 2 Episode 3 Hit and Run

In this episode titled "Hit and Run," Sport Science is taking a closer look at the science behind one of the most important aspects of Sports i.e., the effect of collisions and hits on athletes' bodies. Hosts John Brenkus and the team are examining different types of collisions in sports to find out how they impact athletes and if there is any way to minimize the injuries that come with them.

To uncover the science behind the collision impacts, Sport Science enlists the help of members of the Minnesota Vikings, including wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson, and puts them through different collision scenarios while measuring their body's performance. The team also conducts experiments on the sideline to test how different helmets react to direct hits from opposing players.

The episode highlights that head injuries are one of the most prevalent and serious injuries among athletes. In football, for instance, collisions to the head can lead to concussions, which are potentially life-threatening, especially with repeated head hits over time. The Sport Science team examines the effects of hits on the brain and how innovation can reduce damage through the use of better helmets.

The episode goes into detail about how helmets are designed to reduce the scale of injury, with different models adapted for various positions needed for the game. The team tests the resistance and impact on Skull caps and shows which models do a better job of dissipating force from hits to the head. The tests are essential so that players can make more informed decisions and protect themselves at all times.

Another collision that is typical in many sports is the hip check, which can lead to players being flipped over in a knockdown. This collision is common in ice hockey when players collide while skating at high speeds. The Sport Science team breaks down the science of the hip check, measuring the blistering speed and force required for a perfect hip check, helped by data played in slow motion. The team tests the impact of players within the field, recording the g-forces experienced by players in real-time.

Finally, the episode covers the technique needed for football players to tackle their opponents safely. The Sport Science team demonstrates the correct positions and angles, to tackle an opponent so that there is minimal risk of injury. The team tests the effect of head confrontations versus body position tackling methods with machines that measure the force of impact when players collide with the tackling pads.

"Hit and Run" is an engrossing episode that uncovers the science behind tackling and other critical skills with exciting experiments and expert analysis. The data and tests given during the show help players and coaches understand what goes on during the game, and the precautions they can take to minimize injuries and enhance performance. The episode also takes a closer look at the work being done by scientists and equipment manufacturers to incorporate the latest technology into helmets, pads, and other essential pieces of players' gear to minimize potential or severe injuries caused by hits and collisions.