Scientific Method
What is a hypothesis?
A testable prediction or educated guess.
What is evidence-based training?
Using scientific research and data to guide training decisions.
What is the purpose of a literature review in research?
To understand what is already known and identify gaps.
What is a control variable?
A variable that is kept constant throughout the experiment.
Why is it important to control variables in an experiment?
To isolate the effect of the independent variable.
What is an independent variable?
The variable that is changed or controlled in an experiment.
Give example of evidence-based training practice
Dynamic stretching before workouts instead of static stretching.
Define qualitative and quantitative data
Qualitative: descriptive, non-numeric; Quantitative: numeric, measurable.
What is validity?
The extent to which the experiment measures what it claims to measure.
What is one example of a control group in a training study?
A group that does not receive the training program.
What is a dependent variable?
The variable being tested and measured.
Benefits of evidence-based training
Safer, more effective, more personalized, avoids fads.
What is a placebo?
A fake treatment used to compare against the real one.
What is reliability?
The consistency of results across repeated experiments.
How do professionals apply research findings to training programs?
They modify plans based on proven effective strategies.
6 steps of the scientific method
Ask a question, do background research, construct a hypothesis, test with an experiment, analyze data, draw a conclusion.
Three pillars of evidence-based practice
Best available evidence, clinical expertise, client values.
What is an abstract?
A short summary of the entire study.
What is a sample size and why does it matter?
Larger samples improve reliability and reduce bias.
What is the difference between anecdotal evidence and scientific evidence?
Anecdotal is personal stories; scientific is tested and peer-reviewed.
Why is replication important in scientific studies?
It confirms the reliability and validity of results.
What is an example of a fitness myth that science has disproved?
Crunches are the best way to get six-pack abs
Correlation vs. causation
Correlation is a relationship; causation means one causes the other.
What role does peer review play in research?
It ensures accuracy and validity before publication.
Takeaway from this week (open-ended)
Answers will vary.