A review of wearable flexible sensors for sports: from materials to applications

Abstract

Wearable flexible sensors (WFSs) provide comprehensive physiological and real-time motion data monitoring for human movement due to their excellent monitoring performance. Currently, WFSs used for motion monitoring include various types of sensors such as strain, inertial, bioelectrochemistry, and optoelectronic sensors, as well as smart fabrics. However, in sports, developing WFSs that are suitable for high-intensity human movements while maintaining excellent monitoring capabilities is still challenging due to body movement complexity and intensity. This article systematically reviews the latest research progress on WFSs applied in sports. First, a detailed discussion is provided on the types of sensors currently used in sports, particularly their working principles, preparation materials, and functions. Second, based on the material sensing performance and application scenarios of WFSs, the monitoring objects in sports are analyzed, such as human motion, electromyographic signals, electroencephalographic signals, electrocardiogram signals, lactate, glucose, vitamin C, as well as photoelectric signals (heart rate, blood oxygen saturation). Lastly, the application prospects, challenges, and opportunities of WFSs in sports manuscript are summarized, providing valuable insights for further research and the development of wearable devices suitable for sports.