That Triathlon Show

The replication crisis in sports science with Joe Warne, PhD | EP#468

Aug 16, 2025
Joe Warne, PhD, a researcher at Technological University Dublin and a leading figure at the Sports Science Replication Centre, discusses the alarming replication crisis in sports science. He reveals that only 28% of studies can be successfully replicated, raising concerns about research quality. Joe emphasizes the need for coaches and athletes to critically evaluate scientific findings and navigate issues like publication bias and statistical misinterpretation. He advocates for rigorous research standards to improve credibility in the field.
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INSIGHT

Publication Incentives Distort Science

  • Research incentives have shifted toward novelty and publication count, distorting scientific priorities.
  • That culture prioritizes interesting results over rigorous, repeatable science.
INSIGHT

Small Samples Inflate False Confidence

  • Small sample sizes and questionable practices inflate apparent discoveries in sports science.
  • These factors reduce confidence and make findings less likely to replicate.
INSIGHT

P-Values Aren't Proof

  • A p-value only indicates the probability of observing results under a model, not proof of truth.
  • Statistical power and adequate sample sizes are necessary to make p-values meaningful.
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