Hoping for the best, prepared for the worst: can we perform remote data collection in sport sciences?

Abstract

The outbreak of the new Coronavirus and the sudden lockdown promoted alternative approaches for health care procedures, such as telemedicine and telerehabilitation appointments. The establishment of ​​social distancing as the "new normal" and use of technologies became necessary for remote online activities (i.e., school, work, leisure and shopping). Considering that COVID-19 changed the way health care is supported, maybe it is a paramount time to rethink new possibilities also for sport science, since face-to-face experiments and all activities were suspended. In this Perspective, we discuss possibilities related to data acquisition in sport sciences, highlighting remote assessments in an online remote-scenario. Specifically, we propose that the incorporation of new available smart technologies which can help in supporting research in sport science, and that this will be inevitable in the near future. Consequently, observations about the possibility of remote assessments, data robustness and evolution of current data acquisition practices are presented. Finally, we hope this Perspective serves as a point of departure for discussing new possibilities for data collection and experimental designs.

Commentaries on Viewpoint: Hoping for the best, prepared for the worst: can we perform remote data collection in sport sciences?

“…to the editor : We partially agree with the point of view of Souza et al ( 1 ). Some factors related to online collection are considered positive, such as the reduction of the costs of commuting volunteers and, consequently, the agility to collect the data.…”

“…to the editor: Remote data collection ( 1 ) is of growing interest, especially in sport nutrition, whereby a specific diet and/or supplement is prescribed in conjunction with exercise training. Verifying adherence to prescribed interventions and estimation of dietary intake is paramount.…”

“…to the editor : Recently, Souza et al ( 1 ) in their study proposed a discussion on remote data collection. Research questions involving validity and reliability for remote data collection and applying remote physical exercise to older people (especially those with comorbidities) are of health interest, due to the high mortality risk of this population.…”

“…to the editor: Souza et al ( 1 ) in their study outline several protocols for research to be conducted outside the laboratory. We would like to complement their Viewpoint by pointing out some methods for participants’ self-assessment of endurance performance.…”

“…to the editor : Souza et al ( 1 ) in their study raised concerns regarding remote data acquisition in sport science. Recent advances in resistance exercise (RE) technology have the potential to alleviate some of their concerns.…”