"It is the responsibility of scientists never to suppress knowledge, no matter how awkward that knowledge is, no matter how it may bother those in power; we are not smart enough to decide which pieces of knowledge are permissible and which are not”
- Carl Sagan
Introduction
You are most likely reading this with a primary objective to enhance physical performance by developing the underpinning physical qualities of an athlete or tactical professional. You are also most likely aware human performance is dynamic by nature and demands a scientific approach in order to achieve optimal results. In this article we explore an unconventional approach to applying the scientific method.
The scientific method is a systematic approach to problem-solving that involves the application of logical and empirical techniques to investigate phenomena. This method enables coaches and sport scientists to design and implement effective training programs. It involves identifying a gap, purposing a hypothesis, collecting data to test the hypothesis, and then analyzing these results with a conclusion.
Steps to Applying the Scientific Method
Step 1: Observe and Find a Gap: The first step involves observing the athlete or tactical professional and identifying the problem or issue that needs to be addressed. This involves being up and out, reverse engineering from the scoreboard to find areas in need of improvement and formulate questions.
Observations are the foundation of your hypothesis. They can be qualitative or quantitative by utilizing subjective interpretation (E.g., “The coach’s eye”) or numerical data (E.g., Force plate metrics), respectively. No matter the complexity or sophistication, the objective is to identify patterns and gaps in need of improvement. This will ignite informed decision making and support the desired outcome.
Step 2: Research Acquired Targets: Patterns and gaps have been identified and now is the time to gain insight on the target. By going down and in, it allows for better interpretation of the problem in need of solving. Think of it as determining a start and end point as well as the route.
Is there historic data that can paint you a picture? What is the individual’s opinion on their gap? Coach(es) lore? Is there normative data to interact with? Does the literature command any interventions with confidence?
Step 3: Develop a Hypothesis: Once the problem has been identified and understood, a hypothesis can be formulated. This is a proposed solution to the problem. If X then Y.
The hypothesis should be based on empirical evidence and practice-based knowledge. By relying on your research on the acquired target (Step 2), an intervention strategy should allow for the development of a training program that produces an outcome. Whether this outcome is favorable or not will be determined at a later time.
Step 4: Experiment and Collect: Now the practical component where the intervention strategy is put under the microscope.
Your hypothesis will always be testable. If it is not directly testable, it will always be criticisable. Always consider the intended outcome and how it is monitored.
Trust the process, barring steps one through four not being applied appropriately.
Step 5: Analyze and Report: Is the hypothesis upheld or null? Is the outcome worthwhile or nonsignificant?
Based on the data analysis, the practitioner can draw a conclusion that supports or rejects the hypothesis. If the hypothesis is supported, the intervention strategy can be refined further or another problem can be prioritized. If the hypothesis is not supported, the intervention strategy needs to be revisited.
Be sure to report your findings to all involved in the process. This should be an explanation of your conclusion, drawing on the evidence, and highlighting limitations as well as future considerations. Ensure it is digestible to all parties.
Step 6: Rinse and Repeat: If the method is being applied correctly a solution to your current problem may lead to creating a new problem. Rather, it may push another problem to the top of the priority list.
This step is about the evolution of performance. Iteration will challenge dogma.
Figure 1: A rudimentary example of the scientific method.
The Benefits of Applying the Scientific Method to Your Practice
Using the scientific method in human performance could have several benefits, including:
Evidence-Based Decision-Making: By using the scientific method, coaches and scientists can make evidence-based decisions about training interventions to support anecdotal practice-based knowledge.
Improved Performance: By employing the scientific method, coaches and scientists can identify effective training interventions that can improve athletic or mission critical performance.
Reduced Risk of Injury: The scientific method can help coaches and scientists identify training interventions that are effective at reducing the risk of various injuries.
Professional Development: By using the scientific method, coaches and scientists can continually improve their knowledge and understanding of sport science and strength and conditioning.
Summary
The scientific method is an essential tool in sport science and strength and conditioning. By formulating a hypothesis, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting results, coaches and scientists can make evidence-based decisions to improve performance outcomes. Not to say lessons learned at the front line are not valuable, practice-based knowledge can easily be scrutinized using this framework too.
It is imperative to note that coaching happens in the grey. Injecting empirical corroboration into the operational anecdote is effective. Using the scientific method as a barometer to measure the effectiveness of this blend yields an even greater result.
Currently, it is encouraged that you challenge your current way of thinking and adopt this into your practice. However, I may change my opinion upon reviewing this article and challenging my current stance.
Alexander J. Morgan, MSc., CSCS, RSCC, CEP
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