SPORTS SCIENCE AT ETHOS
INTRODUCTION
This blog is going to discuss some of the sports science processes at ETHOS - specifically some of the processes around testing and profiling.
Before we dive further into this blog, let’s firstly define what SPORTS SCIENCE is? A great definition by Craig Turner, fellow Sports Scientist, is shared below:
“The study and understanding of the principles of science within specified disciplines that impact sport, that are enhanced by utilizing research based processes within practical delivery, in an attempt to answer sport performance-based questions.
”
An addition to this definition is by suggesting that we should always consider the end goal which is to maximise human performance.
This is a useful definition of Sports Science because nowadays, the Sports Scientist is seen as the “person in charge of the data.” However, Sports Science is much more than just data. A good sports scientist understands a little bit about each area that might influence performance e.g. strength and conditioning, psychology, physiotherapy, data etc. Depending on what the organisation needs, the sports scientist might specialise in one or more of these areas to answer specific questions about performance. For Example, at ETHOS, at the moment I primarily specialise is with testing and profiling. If I was working within the team sport space, it might be specialising towards something like Training Load Monitoring and Management. This is where the Sports Scientist can be valuable as they are able to help fill the gaps in which other support staff may lack areas of expertise or time to commit to additional research or data collection.
CREATING THE SPORTS SCIENCE DEPARTMENT AT ETHOS
When I started at ETHOS, I was assigned the goal of creating a Sports Science Department at ETHOS from the ground up. To achieve this, we needed to use a framework that would provide structure to how we would collect the data. The aim was to make a robust Sports Science system so that anyone would be able to take over and continue the development of Sports Science at ETHOS.
Testing and Profiling Framework at ETHOS
Discovery
Firstly, we needed to establish what was it that needed to be answered? We were primarily interested in the differentiating physical qualities between various disciplines of combat sports. There wasn’t much information on this in research and apart from the UFC, there aren’t that many organisations that house the number of combat athletes that we have at the gym. We decided that the first piece of equipment that we needed to get was the VALD Forcedecks. This was a versatile piece of technology that allowed us to objectively measure some of the physical qualities that underpin the skills within combat sports such as Power, Strength, and Reactive Strength. We also had to choose metrics that were reliable and sensitive. To quantify performance, metrics like Jump Height (Impulse-Momentum), Net Peak Vertical Force, and Reactive Strength Index were reliable and commonly used in research. These are some of the key KPIs we still use currently.
Interpretation
Once we found what we wanted to measure, we had to find ways to communicate this information. From talking to athletes, what I found was that most of them didn’t really care about the “specific” results. They were more interested in how they compare to other athletes. This is why our information is displayed as a T-score out of 100 so the athlete can see how they compare to other athletes. I say that it is like a “FIFA rating,” because it’s essentially assigning a rating for them based on certain physical attributes.
Another scenario we needed to consider was athletes whom we had to re-test down the track. We had to find a way to show meaningful changes. To determine the significance of changes in performance, we employ methods like the Smallest Worthwhile Change or Coefficient of Variation. This helps athletes and coaches gauge the effect of their improvements and see whether we can be confident with a real change.
Disseminate
When reporting information, we need to consider the presentation of reporting. Our report contains key metrics that we look at to explain a message to the athlete. The report also has a traffic light system that is easy for the athlete to identify whether something is poor, average or good. Finally, we need to keep in mind whether the actual “end user” of the report is interested in the information. If the end user is interested, then it’s easy to present the data because we can simply present what they want to look at. If they are interested but don’t know what to look at then perhaps it might be an opportunity to show you can do. Some people are not interested at all; however, this might be an opportunity to demonstrate what they are doing is right.
Application
Application to performance and training is where the value of data lies. A good analogy I like to use is the LEGO analogy. There’s no use collecting all that LEGO without building something out of it. We can apply this concept to the use of data. When it comes to data in sport, there are 3 main uses: to quantify performance, to provide objective data for return to performance, and to assist with monitoring the athlete’s training status. For example, our report may suggest that the athlete needs to work on overall maximal strength with deficiencies in hamstring strength and end-range shoulder strength. Although we can’t neglect other parts of training, this is where having testing data is useful because it helps us to target exactly what the athlete needs. Another example would be training load monitoring. If we measure something like a countermovement jump weekly, we can get a good idea about how fatigued the athlete is leading into the start of the week. Having this data may be useful to make modifications around a training program or workout on a specific day. Ultimately, these assessments provide the coach with a roadmap for which direction the athlete should be guided towards.
CONCLUSION
Hopefully, by reading this blog, you now have a better understanding of what Sports Science is and how the ETHOS Testing and Profiling Framework is an invaluable tool in maximizing athlete performance.