Optimal Support for Elite Sprinters Using a Minimal, Adequate, and Accurate Approach

Area of Science:

• Sport Science
• High-Performance Sport
• Athletic Support

Background:

• Sport scientists and staff offer valuable support to athletes and coaches in high-performance settings.
• Effective support is crucial for optimizing athletic performance and well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and detail a "minimal, adequate, and accurate" sport-science support approach.
• To ensure sport science programs are both economical and effective for athletes.

Main Methods:

• Advocating for "minimal" resource utilization (time, tools, funding) to achieve outcomes.
• Ensuring "adequate" information for specific objectives and "accurate" (valid, reliable) methods/data.
• Illustrating the approach with a case study of 100-m sprinters at an international competition, integrating neuromuscular readiness, wellness, movement, motivation, biomechanics, and feedback.

Main Results:

• The integrated approach combines knowledge from multiple sport science disciplines.
• Key facets include neuromuscular readiness, wellness monitoring, movement observation, motivation, biomechanics, and qualitative feedback.
• This framework is tailored to specific event determinants, such as those in the 100-m dash.

Conclusions:

• This quantitative and qualitative approach enhances informed decision-making in sport science.
• Regular planning, evaluation, and refinement are essential for effective sport science support.
• Co-designing the "minimal, adequate, and accurate" approach with athletes, coaches, and staff ensures successful implementation.