Mankind's attempts to create robotic humans that move exactly like us have so far been far from perfect. They usually stumble around, desperately trying to keep their balance like a toddler taking its first steps. But recreating the natural motions of underwater creatures like sea turtles? We've damn near perfected that. Read More >>
Why are humans all over the world so fascinated by sport? It must have something to do with the desire to win. And yet winning isn't just down to how much you want it. Winning, especially at the highest levels, usually involves getting an edge on your opponent through innovation. Or as the Audi slogan goes: "vorsprung durch technik," or advantage through technology. Read More >>
If you're bored with the bus, terrified by the tube, and petrified by the idea of peddling to work, there may be hope for you yet. The runner-up of a recent urban design competition has proposed a commuter swimming lane along London's Regent's Canal. Read More >>
Featured comment by royal_navy_dan:
"I accept your challenge sir but ye shall have to wait as I am currently chasing the more modern "Pirates Of The Middle East",
(As for the weapons- ..." More »
The Olympics has a long and inspirational history full of, triumph, glory, perseverance and dedication, but it's also got a tonne of cheating gits who'd do anything to get their grubby little hands on a shiny medal. Here's a list of some of the more interesting (and idiotic) athletes who've got caught over the years. Read More >>
Featured comment by jimbo:
"Perhaps my post was too subtle or you quickly skimmed over my post and assumed I was in agreement with MarkcGrant- nothing could be further from the t..." More »
If Tokyo Tech's swimming android robot—awkwardly dubbed the Swumanoid—is any indication, our Olympic athletes don't have to worry about any cybernetic competition for at least a few more years. But for the time being, this robot is actually designed to help improve a human swimmer's performance and gear. Read More >>
The coolest kid at the beach would come sporting this water toy—a float with a periscope attached. But what everyone wants to know is if they could make it for adults too. Read More >>
Monika Naumann's three daughters simply adore all things mermaid. And, fortunately for the daughters Naumann, their mother will do whatever it takes to ensure her girls have their hearts' desire. It doesn't matter that mermaids aren't real! If they want to be little Ariels, they will be little Ariels! Read More >>
If you're like the majority of runners, you've experienced this at one point or another: You're out for a run, and then in creeps a sharp, localised pain, right under one of your ribs. You think, "What is that, and how to I banish it to hell forever?" Read More >>
Featured comment by locust76:
"I used to get this shit all the time back in the Army. The only cure I found (and yes, I devoted my waking hours to this dilemma in basic training) wa..." More »
This seems a little counter intuitive, but apparently the fastest way to claw through the water is with splayed hands. That classic cupped oar-like technique is just plain rubbish compared to forked fingers. Read More >>
Featured comment by Bejan:
"The research article on which this story is based is available at
www.constructal.org
See : "The Constructal-Law physics of why swimmers must sp..." More »
Philippe Croizon lost his arms and legs in a terrible accident 18 years ago. Since then, he has trained to become a world class athlete. This summer, the Frenchman is going to swim between every continent in the world. Read More >>