Sport & Big Data: Challenges and Opportunities for Sport Science

13TH Annual Congress of the Swiss Society of Sport Science (4S) – 9th & 10th February 2022

Our society is increasingly digitalized through the use of a wide range of digital technologies that generate a flow of data grouped under the term Big data. These data are characterized by 5 V Big Data Volume, Velocity, Variety, Veracity and Value. While some data are collected without the knowledge of individuals, much of the data are collected on a voluntary basis. This is particularly the case for sport-related data collected through connected watches, smartphone applications, tracking systems, smart sportswear, etc.

At the individual level, these technologies generate information about the body and daily life, such as data on daily physical activity, diet and general health. For the athlete, this data are an essential tool for improving performance or preventing injuries. This material can therefore be of interest to a wide range of stakeholders: athlete, coach, fitness trainer, specialist in adapted physical activities, doctor, sports agent, insurers, sports-related industry (marketing, organisation of sports events, sports journalism, video game industry, etc.). These data, and the methodologies that go with them, also open up new perspectives for sport science research. However, they also sometimes have a problematic side that requires methodological, technological and legal reflections on the proper use of big data.

This year’s annual conference will therefore focus on different aspects of big data in sport. It will be, among others, about self-tracking devices as well as e-sport. We will offer a varied and diversified scientific programme to cover everyone’s interests. We look forward to welcoming you in Lausanne and look forward to seeing you there!