Points of attention in statistical analysis for athletic training researchers

Abstract

Null hypothesis significance testing (NHST) based on Neyman-Pearson’s approach is mainstream statical data analysis in research of athletic training. NHST is an extremely useful way to delineate significant differences by a significant level, but not many researchers understand correctly the meaning of significant differences. P-value depends on sample size and does not evaluate the magnitude of differences (effect size). We are interested in is “how effective?” or “better than previous research?”. NHST is the beginning, not the end. To improve the quality of the research, effect size and confidence interval should be added. The magnitude of differences bringing a practical application for the athletic training field must evaluate without being swayed by the result of NHST.