Exploring the Use of Wearable Technology by Athletes: A Narrative Review

At the elite level, success is often separated by centimeters or milliseconds. Arguably, integrating technology offers a competitive advantage in closing this gap. Wearable technology has become an increasingly adopted tool used in all levels of sports. Considering elite athletes, and applying a self-efficacy theory lens, the purpose of this narrative review is to explore the use of wearable technology in elite athletes. Specifically, (a) the major types of wearable technology used by athletes; (b) how wearable technology may affect performance; and (c) trends and gaps in the field.