Reviewing sports performance

Understanding Sports Performance Review

A sports performance review helps athletes measure progress, identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Performance can be assessed in different ways, including observation, video analysis, self-assessment, and feedback from coaches or peers.
Performance data can be qualitative (descriptive) or quantitative (numeric). Examples of qualitative data include coach comments or peer feedback, while quantitative data may include times, distances or scores.
It’s critical to establish benchmarks or performance standards to assess progress. These might be based on personal bests, records, or performance criteria for different skill levels.

Methods of Reviewing Performance

Observation and analysis help athletes recognise strengths and weaknesses. Video recording methods can be particularly useful for analysing technique and games.
Fitness assessments quantify physical attributes such as speed, strength, stamina or flexibility, which underpin sports performance. Examples include timed runs, weightlifting tests, or flexibility measurements.
Self-assessment and reflection help athletes recognise their own feelings during performance and how they handled different situations. Athletes can record thoughts and feelings in training diaries or logbooks.

Evaluating Performance Data

Quantitative data can be evaluated by comparing it against benchmarks or previously recorded data to track progress.
Qualitative data is evaluated by considering the significance and relevance of the feedback. It often involves a degree of interpretation.
Feedback should be constructive, focusing not only on negative aspects but also on what the athlete did well and how they can further develop their skills.
Performance profiling can be used to rate or rank different aspects of an athlete’s performance, providing a clear visual indicated of strengths and areas for improvement.

Implementing Feedback and Improving Performance

Feedback should be used to inform training, coaching and performance strategies.
Goal setting can be an effective way to use feedback, setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timed (SMART) goals to work towards.
It’s important to review goals and progress regularly, adapting goals and training approaches as necessary.
Athletes should learn to accept feedback and view it as an opportunity for improvement, rather than a criticism. Positive mindset and resilience are key to turning feedback into improved performance.

Reviewing Sports Performance - Ethical Considerations

Accurate, honest and unbiased feedback is essential for effective performance review. Misleading or biased feedback can damage athlete confidence and hinder progress.
Ethical considerations include fairness (all athletes have equal access to accurate feedback), integrity (feedback is honest and unbiased), and respect (feedback is delivered in a constructive, respectful manner).
Even when looking to improve performance, athletes should always uphold the principles of fair play and the spirit of the game.

Remember, reviewing sports performance is not just about identifying what went wrong - it’s about recognising what you did well, understanding how you can improve, and setting goals to help you get there.