Reflections on Conducting a Large Replication Project in Sports and Exercise Science

Abstract

This review reflects on the lessons and limitations of the first large, collaborative replication project in sports and exercise science. We discuss the challenges and barriers faced, while also exploring the broader contribution of replication to the field. This project faced many practical challenges when preparing studies for replication, specifically the poor reporting of statistical information, the availability of original raw data and the prioritisation of feasibility at the risk of some bias. However, we believe these issues reflect the larger sports and exercise science field. Therefore, our research culture needs to change to minimise the active engagement in behaviours that reduce reproducibility and replicability, and enable collective evaluation of research in line with the foundations of scientific rigour. In addition, discourse with the original study authors was a challenging process as many were unwilling to engage and this indicates a problematic perception of replication. We also reflect on the contribution of replication to theory development in sports and exercise science so that this review can serve as a valuable resource for understanding replication and can aid future replication efforts.