A captivated audience watches the dizzying spins of gymnasts, the powerful glides of top swimmers and the goal-scoring kicks of football players. The Summer Olympics have started! But there's more than speed and skill involved in the athletes' medal-worthy performances. Science plays a role in each well-rehearsed movement, in top speeds and even the protective gear used in the Olympics. Take young readers behind the scenes to have a close look at how science is involved in their favourite Summer Olympic sport, including gymnastics, swimming, track and field, and football.