The Impact of Technology on Modern Sports

Article Level: B1-B2

Explanation: This article explores how technology is changing modern sports. It covers how athletes train, how decisions are made during games, and how fans engage with sports. While technology offers many benefits, the article also discusses concerns about losing the human side of sport.

Commonly Used Words from the Article

1. Athlete /ˈæθliːt/ (noun): A person who competes in sports.

   The athlete trained for months before the race.

2. Track /træk/ (verb): To follow or record the progress of something.

   Smartwatches can track your daily steps.

3. Performance /pəˈfɔːməns/ (noun): How well someone does an activity.

   The coach reviewed the player’s performance after the match.

4. Fair /feə(r)/ (adjective): Treating people equally without favouritism.

   Technology helps referees make fair decisions.

5. Immersive /ɪˈmɜːsɪv/ (adjective): Making someone feel completely involved in something.

   VR offers an immersive sports viewing experience.
   
   

          Audio File of the Article

The Impact of Technology on Modern Sports

Technology has changed almost every part of our lives, and the world of sports is no exception. From how athletes train to how fans watch games, modern sports have become faster, smarter, and more connected thanks to technology.

One of the biggest changes is in how athletes train and improve. Today, athletes use fitness trackers and smart devices to monitor their heart rate, sleep patterns, and physical activity. This data helps coaches and players plan better training routines and avoid injuries. Video analysis tools allow players to review their performances and correct mistakes more effectively than ever before.

Technology also plays a key role during competitions. In football, for example, the use of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) helps referees make more accurate decisions. In tennis, systems like Hawk-Eye show whether the ball was in or out, removing doubts and arguments. These tools help make games fairer and more transparent.

For fans, technology has transformed the way we enjoy sports. We can now watch live matches on our phones, tablets, or smart TVs, no matter where we are. Social media allows fans to follow their favourite teams and players, share opinions, and stay updated with real-time scores. Virtual reality (VR) is also starting to change the fan experience, offering a more immersive way to enjoy games from the comfort of home.

However, there are some concerns too. Some people believe that too much technology may take away the human side of sports. For example, overusing video reviews may slow down the game and reduce excitement. There is also the risk of depending too much on data, which might affect natural talent and instinct.

In conclusion, technology has had a major impact on modern sports. It helps improve performance, make fair decisions, and connect fans worldwide. Still, it’s important to find the right balance between using technology and keeping the spirit of the game alive.

Grammar Notes

The article uses a variety of present simple tense verbs to describe general facts (e.g. “Technology has changed…”, “Athletes use…”).
It also includes passive voice in some areas (e.g. “…games are watched…”, “…are reviewed…”), which is useful when the focus is on the action rather than the doer.

Mini Grammar Lesson – Passive Voice (Present Simple):
We use the passive voice when the person doing the action is not important or is unknown.
Structure: Subject + am/is/are + past participle
Example:
✔ “Games are watched by millions of people.”
✘ “Millions of people watch games.” (This is active voice.)

Join Our FREE English Grammar Course and improve your grammar skills!

Five Questions Based on the Article 

• How do athletes use technology to improve their training?

• What is the role of VAR in football matches?

• How has technology changed the way fans watch sports?

• What are some concerns people have about technology in sports?

• Why is it important to balance technology and tradition in sports?
  
  

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