From ski jumping to speedskating, winter sports represent physics in action

Watching, modeling and even playing winter sports help students internalize physics concepts, including acceleration, momentum and friction.

By: Amy Pope, Clemson University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 2, 2026

Words: 980

Last Updated: 1 month, 2 weeks ago

Body Text Preview

By Amy Pope, Clemson University

During the 2026 Winter Olympics, athletes will leap off ramps, slide across ice and spin through the air. These performances will look different to my students who have studied physics through sports. These feats will be something the students have already measured, modeled or felt. As a physicist, I help my students see the games as a place where classroom lessons come to life.

I spend a lot of time …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

Email Us