One type of ergogenic aids is mechanical aids. This could include streamlined swimsuits for swimming or solid disc wheels for cycling. Mechanical aids are designed to help athletes improve performance and gain and edge over the competition.
Mechanical forms of ergogenic aids include specially-designed clothing, enhanced forms of sports equipment, and/or physical devices in contact with a person's body.
In a more general sense, any
physical object that affects performance qualifies as a mechanical aid. These are most often associated with performance enhancements related to a competitive sport rather than just with day-to-day life. They are usually a safe and effect alternative to other ergogenic aids such as drugs.
Here are a few examples of some mechanical aids:
- Altitude Training
- Heart Rate Monitors
- Computers - Used to analyze VO2 max, technique, test results etc.
- Video recorders - Used to analyze technique
- Weights
- Parachutes
- Elastic cord (pulling and resisting)
- Downhill running
- Uphill running
- Treadmills
- Weighted vests
- Sports clothing, footwear and equipment
- Timing equipment
- Nasal Strips
These aids are generally expected, harmless performance boosters whose usage does not necessarily grant an unfair advantage of one sporting member over another.