Competency and Confidence in Qualitative Biomechanical Assessment of Exercise Technique Among Exercise Professionals

Area of Science:

• Exercise Science
• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Understanding resistance exercise technique is crucial for exercise professionals.
• Research specifically evaluating competency in biomechanical assessment of exercise technique is limited.
• This study addresses the gap by assessing exercise professionals' knowledge, confidence, and perceived importance of qualitative biomechanical assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the competency and confidence levels of exercise professionals in performing qualitative biomechanical assessments of resistance exercise technique.
• To determine the perceived importance of these skills among various exercise professionals.
• To identify areas where exercise professionals may need further training and education.

Main Methods:

• A 30-question instrument assessing the application of biomechanical principles to resistance exercises was developed.
• Data were collected from 310 exercise professionals, including personal trainers, strength coaches, and physical therapists.
• Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and t-tests, were used to compare scores across different occupations and experience levels.

Main Results:

• Exercise professionals answered an average of 50% of the biomechanics questions correctly, indicating a general lack of knowledge.
• No significant differences in scores were found based on occupation or years of experience.
• Professionals reported higher confidence in selecting exercises for specific muscle targeting (72%) and identifying poor technique (70%) but lower confidence in optimizing exercises for maximal activation (45%).

Conclusions:

• Exercise professionals in this cohort exhibit significant knowledge gaps in the biomechanics of resistance exercise, including assessment and modification.
• Despite knowledge deficits, professionals perceive these skills as highly important and express a strong desire (97%) for further learning.
• There is a clear need for improved education and training programs focused on qualitative biomechanical assessment for exercise professionals.