The Perfection Point: Predicting the Absolute Limits of Human Performance - Softcover

Brenkus John John Brenkus

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0230752950 ISBN 13: 9780230752955

Publisher: Pan MacMillan, 2011

Synopsis

"The Perfection Point" is a pacy and fascinating look at the science behind the extremes of human performance, which identifies the absolute limits the human body can go to, whether it is running, lifting, throwing or even holding one's breath. It is incredible to think that it is only forty years since Jim Hines ran the 100 metres in under ten seconds, and now Usain Bolt is inching closer to the 9.50 second mark. But how far can humans actually go? Is it possible that one day the 100 metres will be run in less than 9 seconds? When will this happen? And what biological, physical and environmental conditions are necessary to reach the 'perfection point' - a speed, a height, a distance that humans can get closer to but never exceed? And what are the 'perfection points' for other human activities? Combining sold scientific research with engrossing counter-narrative sections, "The Perfection Point" is chock full of cool facts and 'what ifs' that will spark the imagination. For years scientists, athletes, pundits and fans have speculated about the extremes of human performance. "The Perfection Point" finally provides the answers.

About this title

From the Back Cover

What's the fastest a human can run the 100-meter sprint?
What's the longest a human can hold his breath?
What are the limits of human performance?

Until 1954, common wisdom and scientific knowledge considered a sub-four-minute mile an impossible feat for a human. But then Roger Bannister broke that mark, followed quickly by a host of other athletes. Today the world record stands at 3 minutes, 43 seconds, yet even that number doesn't tell the full story of how fast humans can run a mile—records are a mark of how well people have done, not how well they can do.

In this fascinating and thought-provoking book, John Brenkus ventures across the sports world to provide an in-depth look at the absolute limits of human performance. For years, coaches, pundits, and experts have speculated about the extremes of human ability. The Perfection Point finally provides the answers.

About the Author

John Brenkus has spent the last decade studying and popularizing the unique characteristics of the world's greatest athletes. He created the groundbreaking series Fight Science for National Geographic and presents and produces the Emmy Award-winning programme Sport Science on ESPN. He lives in Los Angeles.

About this edition

• Publisher: Pan MacMillan
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 0230752950
• ISBN 13: 9780230752955
• Binding: Paperback