How to evaluate a PFP
A PFP is only effective if it helps a performer to improve. It is essential to monitor and evaluate the effect of the PFP on the performer. A five-step process helps you to evaluate a PFP.
1. Establish the baseline
You can only see an improvement if you know where the performer started 鈥 it is essential to establish a baseline. Before starting the training programme you need to measure the skill or fitness components that the performer plans to improve. For example, to measure a performer's fitness you may use an endurance bleep test.
2. Monitor progress
Depending on the length of the training programme, you need to re-test at regular intervals 鈥 possibly every four weeks 鈥 to check if progress is being made. If not, you may need to redesign or adjust the training programme.
3. Record and present the data
Monitoring progress is easier if you record the data and use it to plot progress over time. For example, you may create a graph showing the bleep test results. This helps you and the performer to see progress at a glance and/or to compare results between performers.
4. Compare results
Although the PFP is specific to an individual, it may be useful to compare the performer's results to those of other performers to check that appropriate progress is being made. For example, the bleep test provides national guidance on what is excellent to poor for different ages and sexes. It is important to use comparisons sensitively as the focus should be on personal improvement.
5. Evaluate the impact
A post-PFP test will show the impact of the training programme on the performer. Has it had the effect you wanted? If yes, you will want to explore the next steps with the performer 鈥 do you do more of the same, extend the challenge or focus on a new component? If the PFP has not had the desired effect, how will you change the training programme so that it does?
Many athletes will keep a training diary to help them to monitor and evaluate their PFP.