AS Exercise Physiology - Preparation and Training Methods

Question 1

Define quantitative data

Answer 1

Factual info and numerical data

- e.g. distance covered in Cooper’s 12 minute test

Question 2

Define qualitative data

Answer 2

Subjective - feelings, opinions and emotions

- e.g. RPE - performer’s perceived level of exertion

Question 3

Define objective data

Answer 3

Based on fact - is measurable

- e.g. maximal fitness tests to exhaustion - often reliable, objective and use a measurement

Question 4

Define subjective data

Answer 4

Based on personal opinions, assumptions, interpretations and beliefs
e.g. sub-maximal tests - rely on predicted/estimated data -sometimes inaccurate and not objective

Question 5

Define validity

Answer 5

Test measures what it sets out to do

• Is the research method relevant? Sit and reach test - valid for lower body flexibility, not upper
• Is the test sport-specific? Multi-stage fitness test - valid for games players, not for swimmers/cyclists

Question 6

Define reliability

Answer 6

Test can be repeated accurately to produce the same/similar outcome
To ensure a test is reliable:
- Experienced tester
- Standardised equipment 
- Repetition to avoid human error
- Sequencing of tests is important