
meta-analyses and systematic reviews) to inform evidence-based decisions. This may be particularly concerning for researchers in high-performance disciplines, since they regularly struggle with small sample sizes and rely on research synthesis approaches (i.e.

More specifically, recent reviews on high performers in sport have noted considerable variation in how terms such as “elite” are used. For instance, variability in describing the performance levels of individuals has made it challenging to draw inferences about inter- and intrapopulation differences. However, there are important limitations to the evidentiary foundations of this field of research. The past two decades have seen a rapid rise in attention towards talent identification, athlete development and skill acquisition.
