The sports where women outperform men
Women excel in ultrarunning and shooting, outperforming men in endurance events and achieving equal performance in stationary shooting. Ongoing efforts for gender equality in sports continue, but disparities in research remain.
Read original article
Women have shown the ability to outperform men in various sports, particularly in ultrarunning and shooting events. Factors contributing to this include physiological advantages such as body fat distribution, which aids in temperature regulation during cold-water swims, and a higher tolerance for discomfort. Research indicates that the performance gap between elite male and female athletes has plateaued at around 8-12%, with women excelling in ultra-endurance events where pacing and mental resilience are crucial. For instance, women have been found to be faster than men in ultramarathons exceeding 195 miles.
In shooting sports, women perform equally well as men in stationary target events, with mental fortitude playing a significant role in their success. The inclusion of women in sports has evolved, with the upcoming Paris Olympics featuring equal numbers of male and female athletes, highlighting ongoing efforts for gender equality in athletics. However, disparities in research and opportunities persist, as much of the existing sports science is based on male athletes. Experts advocate for more inclusive research to better understand female athletic performance and to celebrate women's achievements without direct comparisons to men. This approach could foster a broader acceptance of gender diversity in sports.
Related
Supershoes are reshaping distance running
Supershoes like Nike's Vaporfly are reshaping distance running, enhancing performance with carbon-fiber plates and foam. They spark debates on athletes' abilities and access challenges in Kenya, revolutionizing the sport.
Study comparing mitochondria in males and females finds extreme differences
A study led by Suzanne Edmands at USC Dornsife found sex-specific gene activity in mitochondria of copepods, with implications for human health. Tailoring treatments based on sex differences could improve efficacy.
New Research Finds Differences Between Male and Female Brains
A Stanford University study uncovers distinct male and female brain patterns with no overlap, challenging traditional gender differences. Findings suggest cognitive functions are influenced by unique factors, sparking discussions on gender-based brain disparities.
Why the greatest athletes don't get paid like it
Decathletes like Zach Ziemek face financial struggles despite elite status, relying on personal savings and limited grants. Many earn under $25,000 annually, highlighting systemic issues in U.S. sports funding.
Is a 'slow' swimming pool impeding world records?
Swimmers at the 2024 Paris Olympics are concerned about the shallow depth of the La Défense Arena pool, which may affect performance, but athletes emphasize competition remains fierce despite slower times.
1 commentsRelated
Supershoes are reshaping distance running
Supershoes like Nike's Vaporfly are reshaping distance running, enhancing performance with carbon-fiber plates and foam. They spark debates on athletes' abilities and access challenges in Kenya, revolutionizing the sport.
Study comparing mitochondria in males and females finds extreme differences
A study led by Suzanne Edmands at USC Dornsife found sex-specific gene activity in mitochondria of copepods, with implications for human health. Tailoring treatments based on sex differences could improve efficacy.
New Research Finds Differences Between Male and Female Brains
A Stanford University study uncovers distinct male and female brain patterns with no overlap, challenging traditional gender differences. Findings suggest cognitive functions are influenced by unique factors, sparking discussions on gender-based brain disparities.
Why the greatest athletes don't get paid like it
Decathletes like Zach Ziemek face financial struggles despite elite status, relying on personal savings and limited grants. Many earn under $25,000 annually, highlighting systemic issues in U.S. sports funding.
Is a 'slow' swimming pool impeding world records?
Swimmers at the 2024 Paris Olympics are concerned about the shallow depth of the La Défense Arena pool, which may affect performance, but athletes emphasize competition remains fierce despite slower times.