Year 11 students experience elite sports science firsthand at BEST Hub.
A day where classroom concepts came to life through hands-on sports science and cutting-edge technology.
Last term, Year 11 Health and Movement Science students had the opportunity to visit the Blacktown Exercise, Sports and Technology Hub (BEST). This excursion not only provided practical experience with elite sports testing but also deepened understanding of core syllabus content, especially around biomechanics, fitness testing, and health and performance indicators.
During the excursion, students participated in a variety of physical assessments and interactive sessions designed to simulate real-world sports science testing environments. Activities included lactate testing, force plates, the Wingate test, an environmental chamber, and a reaction time drill. These tests allowed the students to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application, such as learning how aerobic and anaerobic systems respond to exercise or how muscular power can be measured and improved.
One of the highlights of the day was using high-tech equipment like force plates and sprint timing gates. It was fascinating to see how data collected from this is used to optimise training and prevent injury, directly linked to our study of biomechanical principles and exercise.
Overall, the facilities at the Hub were incredibly impressive and inclusive. With access to professional-level equipment and knowledgeable staff guiding us through each session, all students were given the chance to participate in the testing, regardless of fitness level or sporting background. The excursion was both informative and inspiring, giving real-world context to our classroom learning and showing how technology is changing the way athletes train and perform.
Ava S. and Lila A. | Year 11 Students
Catherine McAuley Westmead
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22 Oct 2025
Health and Movement Science in Action: A Hands-On Experience at Blacktown's BEST Hub
A day where classroom concepts came to life through hands-on sports science and cutting-edge technology.
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