Monday, 20 May, 2013

We lie for many reasons: Glory. Money. Both. Something else. Is there a science of detecting lies? Does the digital realm make lying harder? Easier? Both?

Ultra sports are exploding! Why would anybody bike 508 miles across the desert – or run 135? What are the rigors of training, the satisfaction of finishing, the dangers of competing? Are we the ultimate endurance animals?

What is EPO? What are steroids? Do steroids cause aggression? Are steroidal athletes bad role models? Are we over-reacting to steroid use?

Armstrong wins historic 7th Tour de France. How do endurance athletes prepare for Tour de France? Marathon? Ironman?

It’s not just football. Hockey and biking are dangerous sports too. What are the real dangers of our athletic obsessions? What is the link between concussion and depression later in life?

Airbus crashes in New York — composite material fails and tail fin falls off. Why are composites (usually) so strong? How are they used in roads, bikes and planes?

Doping clouds cycling and other sports. What drugs are in use? How do athletes avoid detection? What is the real harm of steroids?