The Science Behind Football, Volleyball, Cycling, and Other Popular Sports (Edge Books: Science of the Summer Olympics)

Behind every Summer Olympic scoring football kick, tennis-ball bounce and hard-hitting volleyball serve, science is at work. The type of kick used on a football affects its path. An equestrian leans forward during a jump to help the horse balance. Cyclists wear tight clothing to reduce drag. Find out how science is involved in several popular Summer Olympic events and how athletes take science into account in their quest for the gold medal.