Performance Analysis

Question 1

define performance analysis

Answer 1

the systematic observation, recording, and evaluation of an athlete’s performance using qualitative and quantitative methods

Question 2

what is the overall aim of performance analysis?

to improve… (4)

Answer 2

to improve:

• decision-making
• technique
• strategies
• effectiveness in training and competition

Question 3

outline the coaching process

Answer 3

observation »» analysis »» evaluation »» feedback »» planning

Question 4

what does PA allow for? (5)

Answer 4

• identifying strengths and weaknesses in performance, for both individuals and teams
• feedback to the coach, teacher and performer
• creation of a reliable record of performance that can be analysed
• adaptation of training programmes to occur
• talent identification within academies

Question 5

what exactly do coaches observe? (4)

Answer 5

PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES
speed, CV, endurance, strength, muscular endurance

TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY
running mechanics, jump technique, footwork, passing

TACTICAL AWARENESS
positioning, decision-making, game strategy

BEHAVIOURAL/PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS
confidence, focus, reactions under pressure

Question 6

provide some examples of physical analysis (3)

Answer 6

lab-testing
- VO2-MAX test
- wingate test
- blood lactate

field-testing
- 12 minute cooper run
- beep test

trackers
- heart rate
- GPS

Question 7

how can the coach and the performer use physical data? (7)

Answer 7

• identify strengths and weaknesses (mainly discovered through fitness testing)
• make large or finite changes to a training programme
• develop an ongoing fitness profile of the performer
• set highly specific goals
• to reduce the risk of overuse injuries by managing the workload
• to support recovery and rehabilitation (helps determine when an athlete’s ready to return)
• aid in talent identification and development (young athletes with elite potential)

Question 8

tactical and technical performance analysis can be broken down into two separate but related disciplines…

Answer 8

notational analysis

biomechanical analysis

Question 9

define notational analysis

Answer 9

analysis of an individual or team performance based on multiple KPI’s

Question 10

what is a KPI?

list some examples of KPI’s that may be recorded for notational analysis (4)

Answer 10

key performance indicators

• time in possession
• number of shots
• number of tackles
• successful passes

Question 11

list some methods of notational analysis (5)

Answer 11

real-time analysis

post match/computer analysis

hand notation

video analysis

GPS tracking

Question 12

what is real-time analysis (2)

Answer 12

• involves the use of technology and rationale to collect data whilst the game is occurring/during live performance
• a means of making immediate adjustments in: patterns of play, positioning etc

Question 13

advantages of real-time analysis (5)

Answer 13

immediate information
allows for immediate refinement

coaches can act on information
to change players, tactics during the game

opposition can be analysed

can help minimise the risk of injury
seeing if intensity drops off, heart rate is close to maximum, overexertion

far quicker to analyse information
compared to computer analysis

Question 14

disadvantages of real-time analysis (5)

Answer 14

difficult to process
too much information can lead to cognitive overload

limited information
can lead to limited information feedback

if computers are used, requires specialist training

subjective opinion
can lead to human error

information can be easily forgotten

Question 15

what is post-match/computer analysis? (2)

Answer 15

• analysis through the use of specialised computer software
• involves the recording of a match and a coach or performance analyst noting a number of outcome

Question 16

list some examples of the software used to carry out post-match analysis (3)

Answer 16

• prozone
• sportscode
• catapult

Question 17

advantages of post-match/computer analysis (8)

Answer 17

permanent record of performance
can be used to compare past and present levels

record of opposition performances

slow-motion and freeze frame features
can provide precise analysis

training can be far more specific

players can use it for self-analysis
often more powerful than coach feedback

in-depth, detailed performance review

can be combined with graphics
to provide visual feedback

data can be quantified
easier to interpret

Question 18

disadvantages of post-match/computer analysis (7)

Answer 18

computer programmes can be expensive

specific training is needed

very time consuming
a full match of any sport can take up to 20 hrs to analyse fully

technology is not always reliable

over-reliance
coaches can become data-driven
players can become robotic

data overload
for players especially

no immediate influence on the game

Question 19

define biomechanical analysis (2)

Answer 19

• analysis of the performance of a skill (the biomechanics) to optimise technique and enhance efficiency
• often uses highly specialised video equipment to measure joint angles, force production, body rotation etc.

Question 20

list some examples of the software and equipment used to carry out biomechanical analysis (4)

Answer 20

• quintic
• 3D motion capture
• force plates
• EMG (electromyography)

Question 21

kinetic analysis and kinematic analysis are both a part of biomechanical analysis

what do they analyse exactly?

Answer 21

kinetics
the study of forces + force production

kinematics
the study of motion

Question 22

advantages of biomechanical analysis (4)

Answer 22

performer can optimise performance

data rich
qualitative and quantitative

helps the athlete improve technique

can play a part in minimising the risk of injury

Question 23

disadvantages of biomechanical analysis (7)

Answer 23

too much focus on data produced
potential for over-analysis

requires specialist training or a professional
a biomechanist

equipment is expensive

time-consuming process

many of the tests occur in a controlled environment
may not reflect real sporting conditions

difficult to interpret for the performer

difficult to conduct with younger, inexperienced performers