Field Laboratory

NOTE: This feature first appeared in the Tigers Football GameDay program Nov. 10 when Memphis hosted Tulsa.

Athletes hear coaches all the time. In games. In practices. At team meetings. And maybe even in their sleep.

How about a coach talking to athletes while they're walking just across campus? Crazy, but it's happening for Tigers athletes with a new program that's bringing together sports science and athletics at the University of Memphis.

Simply put, the program tracks bone loading using inertial sensors that can be worn around the ankles or wrists. The data gathered is used to help athletes learn how much force they are putting on their joints and how to bone load appropriately – even when…