“Evidenced-based” is a longstanding term used in many fields, particularly medicine, and has now made its way into the sports world and more specifically the physical training disciples (1). The intent behind this movement is to hold practitioners (coaches, trainers, etc) accountable to higher level results and quality practice. A common misconception is that “evidence” = research studies and therefore being and “evidence-based coach” means you only do what research studies tell you to do. Both said definition of “evidence” and what to do with it are false.
“Evidence, broadly construed, is anything presented in support of an assertion.”(2) There are different types of evidence as well such as digital evidence, personal experience, scientific evidence, testimonial, physical evidence, trace evidence (2). Lastly, research studies merely make recommendations or describe what is currently happening. At PRECISION, we believe 4 types of evidence are needed to optimize decision making when training athletes:
We believe that the training model should dictate the business model (not the other way around) if we are to truly integrate these types of evidence and fully manifest evidence-based training. This setup coupled with an active, purposeful, and continual critique of one’s knowledge and application drives innovation forward and maximizes results that actually matter.
References:
English K.L., Amonette W.E., Graham M., & Spiering B.A. (2012). What is “Evidence-Based” Strength and Conditioning? Strength And Conditioning Journal, 34(3), 19-24. doi:10.1519/SSC.0b013e318255053d
Evidence. (2016, June 5). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 21:39, June 8, 2016, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Evidence&oldid=723765987