Thursday 28 August 2025
Our Year 11 Physical Education NCEA and CIE students recently enjoyed an exciting and insightful Sport Science field trip, visiting Waikato University’s state-of-the-art Sports Science facilities and the world-class Cambridge Velodrome.
The purpose of the trip was to bring key curriculum concepts to life, giving students the chance to deepen their knowledge and understanding of Biomechanics, Exercise Physiology, and Performance Analysis in authentic, high-performance settings.
Highlights of the Day:
- Track riding experience at the Cambridge Velodrome, gaining first-hand insight into elite cycling performance.
- VO₂ max testing in the sport science laboratory, measuring aerobic capacity.
- Wingate lactic acid testing on Wattbikes, assessing anaerobic power and endurance.
- Vertical jump testing to measure explosive leg power.
- Acceleration and sprint testing using electronic timing lights for precision data.
- Professional engagement with sport science specialists who shared expertise and future career pathways.
Through direct participation in these performance tests, students were able to apply classroom learning to real-world contexts, collecting and analysing their own data while experiencing the demands of high-performance sport.
This trip proved to be a valuable and memorable part of the Year 11 Physical Education programme – combining hands-on learning, inspiration, and a glimpse into the science behind elite athletic performance