The End Of GPS?

This week in the world of sports science, here’s what happened…

• Is GPS being replaced?
• Djokovic’s infrared sleeves
• Is VoltOnoSprint reliable?

Is GPS being replaced?

There has been a great deal of discussion online regarding the wearable tracking device developed by the Italian company, TalentPLAYERS. Some people have suggested that this device, worn on the players’ lower legs under their shin guards, could replace GPS technology.

While the device offers multiple advantages over GPS—such as eliminating the need for an uncomfortable vest, avoiding hefty software subscription fees, operating indoors, and providing better measurements of acceleration and deceleration—it’s unlikely to replace GPS anytime soon, despite some online theories.

GPS has been backed by numerous validation studies, years of normative data, and well-established thresholds for high-speed running and sprinting. Although the TalentPLAYERS device shows promise, it won’t be taking the place of GPS in the near future. What may happen down the line is a synergy between the two systems, where teams might integrate GPS for positional tracking with devices like TalentPLAYERS to assess lower limb loading and movement quality.

If you would like to learn more about GPS, check out our extensive relevant blogs and courses:

• GPS (Wearables): Part 1 – Technology, Validity, and Reliability
• GPS (Wearables): Part 2 – Metrics and Application
• GPS analysis: How coaches and athletes can get the most out of it
• GPS Devices
• Catapult GPS
• Integrating GPS in Team Sports

Djokovic’s infrared sleeves

Have you ever wondered why Novak Djokovic often wears knee and arm sleeves? A recent YouTube video by Alec Grawe from Playbook HQ sheds light on this topic.

The sleeves Djokovic uses are made by a brand called “Incrediwear,” which has developed a bioactive infrared fabric. This technology is designed to activate the body’s own heat, which may enhance circulation, reduce pain, and boost performance. Following his meniscus tear in 2024, Djokovic wore Incrediwear sleeves on his knee, and he recently sported them on his arm at the Indian Wells tournament.

It’s also interesting to note that Djokovic has invested in Incrediwear and holds a significant stake in the company. This raises the question of whether he genuinely believes in the benefits of Incrediwear’s products or if his use of them is more about promoting his business interests. Regardless, more research is needed to determine if Incrediwear really stands out compared to regular compression sleeves.

To find out more, check out Grawe’s YouTube clip here.

Is VoltOnoSprint reliable?

VoltOnoSprint is an electronic timing gate system that pairs with a smartphone, enabling coaches and practitioners to measure sprint times with greater precision than handheld stopwatches, at a relatively low cost compared to other speed timing systems. However, it’s important to note that VoltOnoSprint is primarily used in Asia, leading to some scepticism regarding its reliability in countries outside the region.

However, a recent study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research has cast a positive light on VoltOnoSprint. This study compared its performance to that of a radar gun system, the industry gold standard, during 30-metre sprint tests. Remarkably, VoltOnoSprint closely matched the radar gun’s results and demonstrated excellent reliability.

Given the findings from this study, VoltOnoSprint should definitely be on your radar (pardon the pun!) if you’re considering investing in timing gates and seeking real-time sprint force and velocity data for your athletes. Will it only be a matter of time before VoltOnoSprint breaks into the European and American markets? We’ll certainly be keeping an eye on its progress!

From us this week:

>> New course: Programming for ACL Reconstruction
>> New podcast: Building Sports Science Systems That Coaches Use
>> New infographic: Plant-based Diets for Athletes
>> New article: Hydrotherapy

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