David Epstein: Are athletes really getting faster, better, stronger?

The video explores the rapid progress in athletics, comparing past and present performances, such as Jesse Owens and Usain Bolt. It highlights the impact of technology on sports, including track surfaces and swimming techniques. The evolution of athlete body types and specialization is discussed, along with the role of mindset and ultra-endurance in pushing human limits. The video concludes that innovation, changing genes, and mindset have made athletes stronger and faster.

Explain how the introduction of new techniques and equipment has influenced swimming records.

How do the physical characteristics of elite athletes differ based on their sports?

What are some examples of how athletes' mindsets have changed over time?

In what ways have ultra-endurance sports evolved, and what does this say about human capabilities?