Many folks who have visited the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia already appreciate its sports exhibit, where kids and adults can learn the science behind sports moves as they actually play. It's always been one of the more popular sections in the museum and has a reputation for getting sports fans to geek out about science.

Now this section promises to garner even more fans thanks to a 3.1 million-dollar overhaul launched in October 2015.

Step into a fun new zone of the sports section in this super museum — Photo courtesy of Franklin Institute

This new section is called SportsZone and consists of 3,600 square feet of permanent space in which visitors can learn human physiology and the laws of motion as they relate to sports. SportsZone is a family-friendly, date-friendly, bring-your-friends friendly space, which invites guests to move and play.

Its 21 interactive exhibits pit visitors against one another – or against virtual celebrities – in a variety of sports challenges and activities.

Through playing, participants learn the science of the human body including the biomechanics of bones and muscles in play, the effects of warming up on performance and how a running start affects jump height. Visitors will have a chance to observe changes in their own physiology as they bike, surf, ski, pitch and race.

Throw a ball, run a race, leap, spin and step into the science of movement — Photo courtesy of Franklin Institute

Some of SportsZone's 21 interactive exhibits and demonstration areas will feature Philadelphia-area teams, so museum-goers can learn some local history and culture as they explore.

This new exhibit replaces the Sports Challenge exhibit, which entertained and educated Philadelphians and visitors to the city for 15 years. Many activities that were a part of the old exhibit will make the transition to the new one, and with the additions and enhancements, this area promises to prove even more exciting and entertaining than ever before – a true game-changer.

SportsZone can be found on the third floor of the Franklin Institute, and admission to the exhibit is included in the price of general admission.