Case Studies in Exercise and Sport Sciences: A Powerful Tool to Bridge the Science-Practice Gap

Area of Science:

• Exercise Science
• Sports Coaching
• Scientific Communication

Background:

• Coaches struggle to understand exercise research and feel their needs are unmet.
• Coaches primarily rely on peer discussions for knowledge, consuming few peer-reviewed articles.
• A gap exists between exercise science research and practical coaching application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the underrecognized benefits of case studies in exercise science.
• To propose integrating case studies more frequently into research alongside group-based studies.
• To improve communication and collaboration between scientists and coaches.

Main Methods:

• This is a commentary discussing the utility of case studies.
• It reviews the potential of narrative case studies for coaches.
• It emphasizes relationship building between researchers and practitioners.

Main Results:

• Case studies offer a narrative format that improves coach comprehension of research.
• They can serve as a vital communication bridge between scientists and coaches.
• Case studies facilitate stronger relationships, leading to collaborative research opportunities.

Conclusions:

• Case studies are valuable tools for bridging the science-practice gap in exercise science.
• Narrative case studies enhance coach engagement with scientific findings.
• Increased use of case studies can foster productive scientist-coach partnerships and advance sports performance knowledge.