The post-human, such a futuristic term, yet something we may not be far from at all. If we began at wellness and at present find ourselves at human optimisation – where do we go next?

The human cyborg may be a speculative theory; however, we are already there in the literal sense of the word. We already exist in a time of embedded technologies within our systems, even if they are predominantly for medical purposes. The cochlear implant, bionic limbs, and pacemakers are all widely accepted and praised. However, at present, society seems apprehensive towards the idea of technological advancements to the human body which go beyond ‘repair’. The hesitation is such an intriguing insight into society’s stance on the matter. Showcasing that the idea of ‘being human’ is not wished away, no matter how much control we desire. It also represents perhaps the collective imagination within us all, uncertain as to whether we will be fighting technology for control and whether optimisation may lead to depending on or even being run by an external force.

I find myself turning to the sports industry as an indication of what the future may hold for human performance technologies. The industry combines the idea of being ‘well’ and gaining optimal results. Athletes already operate as test subjects for the limits of the human body and extremes it can be pushed to, which are tracked when training with biometric sensors, oxygen restriction masks, and even AI training bots for both action and recovery. We are rapidly improving these technologies; once wearable and external devices developing into internal integration. Once tech is fully integrated within athletes, will we begin competing beyond the biological body’s natural limits?