April 2021 - 20

be used both as an assessment and training tool (along
with having a database of athletes for comparison). Other
high technology tools include Neurotracker, FitLight (also
widely used in conditioning), Binovi, Cognivue, Reflexion,
and RightEye. Many sports vision training centers will
have some, but not all of these tools. Some are portable,
allowing for on-field training, while some are used
primarily in-house.
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF A " TEAM APPROACH " IN
SPORTS AND PERFORMANCE VISION?
Whenever I work with consulting clients who are
ability to change focus from distant to near targets and
vice versa. This helps keep an object in focus and lets an
athlete change focus during a game. (ex Catcher tracking
a ball to their glove and then throwing to first base).
HOW IS A TRAINING PROGRAM STRUCTURED?
With all sports having different visual and motor skills
that are essential for success, a training program will
take the sports unique needs and add complexity. After
first having a comprehensive eye exam to fully correct
an athlete's visual acuity (with contact lenses, sports
eyewear, or refractive surgery), a full assessment of skills
such as the ones above is done. We identify any areas of
opportunity, especially if they are critical for an athlete.
For example, a baseball player who has poor tracking
will likely notice poor performance on the field. A training
program is structured to build complexity while improving
these skills. This can be done in several ways (similar
to a strength training progression) by adding balance,
distraction, cognitive challenges, and sports-specific
movements and drills.
WHAT TECHNOLOGY IS USED FOR ASSESSMENT
AND TRAINING?
There is a wide array of tools available, from analog/
low tech to digital/high tech. This will vary depending on
the sports vision practitioner and practice but can include
traditional vision therapy tools and more high-tech solutions.
In the last few years, there has been an explosion in
the technology now available. One tool that has a great
range of use is the Senaptec Sensory Station, which can
20 | Training & Conditioning | 2021 Tech Guide
interested in starting or expanding a sports vision practice,
I start by stressing the team dynamic when working
with athletes. While many sports vision practitioners are
optometrists, we are a cog in the wheel of the team that
is essential to an athlete's success. I rely heavily on my
colleagues in the strength and conditioning world when
working with athletes to build a program to work on any
deficiencies or areas that are important for an athlete. I also
work closely with athletic trainers who work very closely
with my athletes daily. Chiropractors, physical therapists,
sports psychologists, nutritionists, coaches, sports
medicine doctors, and other professionals are also part of
my network and I consult them when designing a program
and working with an athlete.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?
You can join the International Sports Vision Association
(www.sportsvision.pro), an interdisciplinary group of
professionals dedicated to advancing the field of vision
training for athletes of all ages and levels to improve
performance. We work to increase public and professional
awareness through education, training, and sharing of
research. We also encourage a team approach of coaches,
trainers, and other athletic professionals to include
optometrists and ophthalmologists on the performance
enhancement team.
Sports and performance vision is an extremely
rewarding field, and with proper assessment and
training, it can give an athlete an edge to improving their
performance. n
Dr. Jennifer Stewart is the co-founder and Chief Vision
Officer of Performance 20/20, a sports and performance
vision trainer facility located in Stamford, CT. She is also a
partner at Norwalk Eye Care, a large multi-doctor practice
in Norwalk, CT. Dr. Stewart was awarded The Theia
Award for Innovation by Women in Optometry for her work
in sports and performance vision. She has worked with
athletes from the NHL, NBA, NFL, as well as numerous
professional, elite, college, and youth athletes to improve
performance. She is an Advisory Board Member for the
International Sports Vision Association and a frequent
speaker, writer, and consultant. She is a former Division 1
Track and Field athlete and still holds two current records.
She is now a competitive Olympic Weightlifter and runner.
http://www.sportsvision.pro
April 2021

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