Advancing sports equipment performance: Leveraging rotating small-scale structures for enhanced athletic tools

The use of sophisticated materials and nanoscale structures in the design of sports equipment is recognized as a key strategy for boosting athletic performance. The study of spinning small-scale structures, such as nanobeams and nanotubes, is centered on their potential use in the creation of next-generation sporting equipment. The distinct characteristics of these constructions, such as improved stiffness, vibration damping, and longevity, play an important role in improving the efficiency, control, and responsiveness of various athletic equipment. Nanomaterials are used in tennis rackets, golf clubs, and hockey sticks to efficiently eliminate undesired vibrations while increasing energy transfer upon impact, boosting player comfort and performance. These structures’ rotational dynamics closely resemble real-world circumstances encountered by sports equipment, such as the swinging motion of a bat and the bending of a ski. The nonlocal strain gradient theory provides useful insights for improving material behavior in dynamic loading situations, notably in terms of size effects at the nanoscale. Case studies and practical examples demonstrate how these innovations support athletes in improving their power, accuracy, and the longevity of their equipment. A connection exists between nanotechnology and sports engineering, facilitating the development of lighter, stronger, and more efficient technologies that enhance athletic performance capabilities. The significance of diverse methods for enhancing sports technology is emphasized, providing advantages for both elite athletes and recreational users.