Pick your metrics wisely
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As you dive into the world of sports science with OHCOACH, you might find yourself wondering, "What metrics should I focus on?" We understand the importance of choosing the right metrics, which is why, in this forth episode, we've interviewed our Sports Scientist, Charles Cullen (ASCC) , to guide you through the process!
Q: So, what metrics should I focus on when using OHCOACH?
A: The world of sports science is flooded with information, from metabolic power to heart rate zones, and it can be overwhelming for a newcomer. Navigating this terrain is crucial, especially in a professional sports setting where uninformed decisions can create a hostile environment.
To guide you through this maze, let's narrow down the metrics to 9 solid, research-backed indicators for building comprehensive reports:
- Total Distance (TD): A perennial favorite among players and coaches, though not the most critical metric, it provides a baseline understanding.
- Meters Per Minute (M/MIN): Ideal for assessing Max Intensity Periods (MIPs) or small-sided possessions, offering insights into player exertion levels.
- Explosive Acceleration & Deceleration Distance: Essential for managing intensive days and specific positions like midfielders or central defenders, emphasizing short bursts of acceleration.
- High-Speed Running (HSR): Useful for overseeing extensive days, especially for positions like full-backs, wingers, and strikers where players cover longer distances at high speed.
- Sprint Distance (SD): Arguably one of the most crucial metrics, it demands careful monitoring to ensure players adhere to their game-max benchmarks.
- Body Load (BL): An effective fatigue indicator, tracking consistent workloads with increased impact can signal early signs of fatigue or potential injury.
- Accelerations & Decelerations: Vital for gauging the load on players, with a higher count indicating a more challenging session.
- Max Speed (KPH): Significant when using relative zones for each player, shaping the context for the metrics above.
- Per Minute Metrics: A flexible choice to gauge intensity variations across sessions and session times, providing valuable insights.
Q: How do I determine which metrics are most important on specific training days?
A: Excellent question! The importance of metrics can vary based on the type of training scheduled. For instance, on "small area" days, accelerations and decelerations may take precedence over high-speed or sprint distance metrics due to pitch size limitations.
Q: Charles, but how can I ensure metrics alignment with the coach's training philosophy?
A: Interesting! Now, consider your working relationship with the coach and their value perception. It's often an overlooked aspect, yet crucial for aligning data with the coach's training philosophy. Remember, the Head Coach is the person making the decisions. Our role is to support them in the best way possible, providing insights and information so they can make decisions, we are not there to tell them what to do but to support!
If you can understand the metrics completely, it means the information you provide to the coach should also be impactful, as you are only talking about a select few metrics when communicating. Simplicity in metrics fosters clarity between departments and aids player education.
Q: How can individualized reports with the mentioned metrics impact player buy-in?
A: Top-level players are always learning and seek continuous improvement. Creating individualized reports with the mentioned metrics can be a game-changer in fostering player buy-in. However, it's essential to remain transparent and ensure that data is used accurately to avoid any mistrust from players!
Q: Are complex reports necessary for effective communication?
A: Not at all! Reports should be concise, easy to understand, and deliver genuine insights. When perusing LinkedIn, don't be intimidated by complex Excel or Power BI templates. Reports should be concise, easy to understand, and deliver the intended message to help the coach plan the next steps effectively. Remember, it's about genuine insights, not satisfying egos!
Now you can understand how implementing these metrics, guided by the expertise of our sports scientist, Charles Cullen (ASCC) , can revolutionize your training regimen and elevate your game to the next level!
If you have any further questions on how to best utilize our system to maximize performance, don't hesitate to contact us here.
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