In conjunction with the exhibition “Bank of China (Hong Kong) Presents: National Development and Achievements Series – Approaching Perfection: The Intersection of Sports and Science,” the Hong Kong Science Museum recently hosted a special science lecture featuring two experts from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports).
Titled “How Sports Science Helps You Run and Swim with Ease,” the lecture attracted participants keen to learn how scientific principles can enhance athletic performance and reduce injury risks.
The event, held on January 10, 2026, comprised two insightful sessions:
Session 1: Running Shoe Functions and Healthy Running
Delivered by Dr. Jason CHEUNG Tak-man, Principal Research Fellow at RISports, this session explored how functional running shoes influence running biomechanics and their impact on performance and injury prevention. Dr. Cheung explained the design principles behind different types of running footwear and shared practical guidelines on selecting shoes based on individual biomechanical profiles. He also discussed how variations in running style and technique can affect both performance and the risk of injuries.
Session 2: Understanding Swimming Biomechanics
Dr. Billy SO Chun-lung, a member of RISports, led the second session, diving into the science of efficient movement in water. Participants gained insights into key biomechanical concepts such as propulsion, drag, and the role of technique, strength, and flexibility in swimming. Dr. So broke down the mechanics of various swimming strokes, analyzed common movement patterns, and highlighted how biomechanical knowledge can be applied to improve training outcomes, prevent injuries, and elevate competitive performance.
The lecture provided an engaging platform for the public to interact directly with sports science researchers and learn how cutting-edge studies at RISports are translated into practical, health-enhancing applications. Through initiatives like this, RISports continues to extend the reach of sports science beyond the laboratory, contributing to a healthier and more physically literate community.
