Module 1A Research and Evidence-Based Practice in Strength and Conditioning

Research in Strength and Conditioning

Introduction

  • This lecture covers research concepts relevant to strength and conditioning coaches.
  • Topics include defining research, reasoning forms, research types, and finding evidence.
  • Required readings: Chapters from "Conducting and Reading Research in Kinesiology" and Kristin Ciani's paper on statistical analysis.

Importance of Research Methods

  • Strength and conditioning coaches should be evidence-based, utilizing scientific and practice-based evidence.
  • Key steps for coaches:
    • Identify performance-related questions.
    • Search for and evaluate evidence for validity, impact, and applicability.
    • Implement evidence-based strategies into practice.
    • Assess the effectiveness of new practices.
    • Reevaluate evidence to support training programs, look for new concerns, and check result validity.

What is Research?

  • Research is defined as:
    • A process of discovery and advancement of human knowledge.
    • Creation of new knowledge or innovative use of existing research.
    • Systematic process of finding solutions to problems.
  • Research contributes to the knowledge pipeline, i.e., the transfer of knowledge.

Traditional Types of Evidence

  • Historically, knowledge was based on:
    • Customs and traditions: "What we've always done."
    • Authority: Reliance on experts.
    • Personal experience: Limited applicability, not universal.
  • Limitations of these forms led to the adoption of reasoning and scientific inquiry.

Forms of Reasoning

Deductive Reasoning

  • Starts from a theory or accepted premises.
  • Steps:
    • Form hypothesis based on the theory.
    • Collect and analyze data.
    • Interpret to form a conclusion.
  • Weakness: The initial theory may be false, invalidating subsequent conclusions.
  • Still beneficial but often paired with inductive reasoning.

Inductive Reasoning

  • Opposite of deductive reasoning, starts with observations.
  • Example: Observing improved sprinting performance with increased relative squat strength.
  • Observation leads to generalizations, forming a theory.
  • Theory can be tested quantitatively through deductive reasoning.

Scientific Method

  • Combines inductive and deductive reasoning.
  • Steps:
    • Identify a question.
    • Formulate a hypothesis.
    • Develop a research plan.
    • Collect and analyze data.
    • Interpret results, form conclusions, and build new theories.
  • Forms the foundation for research in sports science and strength and conditioning.