The Importance of SPSS Software in Performance Predictability for Throwing Events

Abstract

Sports in general are conditioned by effort management during training. High performance athletics even more so. Certain means and trials that closely simulate event conditions are employed. This helps conserve the athelete's energy and speeds up healing implicitly. By using a data management program (SPSS - Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), we will be able to outline tendencies, generate charts and tabulated reports in order to achieve a better prediction for performace during events, based on relevant trials. The subjects of our research were 25 athletic throwers (javelin, shot put, discus), that were part of the group representing Romania. Events held about 3 weeks prior to any major competition were taken into account, and by using advanced analysis means, the SPSS application managed to calculate the correlation parameter between results achieved then and during the closest competition, while underlining the predictive value of such data. After data processing, statistical but not causal dependencies were found between certain trials and the throwing distance achieved during the closest competition, thus arguing the fact that some tests are simply not significant for the predictive pattern. In certain situations, the utility of the various preparation trials with regards to the athletic event is not more significant than correctly ascertaining the athelete's training level, state of being (fatigue or preparation), predicting the rate of progress for effort capacity, limiting in order to prevent injury as well as preparation to achieve a sportive form. In conclusion, the SPSS application, while underlining the usefulness of trials for a predictive pattern, may be considered a valid instrument for measuring future performance, only when the other factors are not detrimental to it.