"Hand in Glove": Using Qualitative Methods to Connect Research and Practice

Area of Science:

• Sport Science
• Applied Sport Practice
• Research Methodology

Background:

• Traditional collaboration models between "fast" practitioners and "slow" researchers face economic and logistical challenges.
• Alternative methods are necessary to integrate research findings into applied sport settings.
• Qualitative research has emerged as a viable alternative for bridging this gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the merits of using qualitative research methods in sport science.
• To examine the practical application of qualitative methods in combining research and practice.
• To provide recommendations for future engagement with qualitative research in sport.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent qualitative research examples in published sport science journal articles.
• Critique of the methodologies and approaches employed in these studies.
• Discussion of the benefits and limitations of qualitative research in this context.

Main Results:

• Qualitative methods, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups, offer flexible and accessible means for collaboration.
• Case studies demonstrate the successful application of qualitative research in addressing practical sport science questions.
• Analysis reveals areas for improvement in the application and reporting of qualitative research in sport.

Conclusions:

• Qualitative research provides a valuable framework for integrating scientific knowledge with applied sport practice.
• Encourages practitioners and researchers to adopt and engage with qualitative methodologies.
• Emphasizes the potential of qualitative research to enhance athlete health and performance outcomes.