INTRODUCTION: The goal of sports science in elite sport is to improve the performance of athletes. Despite this common goal, it is currently unclear how sport science research can be optimally implemented. To cover the large variety of different conditions in elite winter sports, like weather conditions, terrain, and snow surface, makes field research in winter sports very challenging. (1) In sports, athletes and coaches are looking for changes or advantages that often work in a n = 1 setting. A standardized research project needs a certain number of participants. However, there is often not enough time or too few participants (at the same level) to fulfil those requirements. Quickly identify key challenges, trends, and changes to be the first to develop good solutions and have a competitive advantage is key for coaches and teams to achieve the success they are working for. Therefore, condensate of different publications will be presented which should by a guideline for researcher. Mainly it focused on the concept of evidence-based practice. (2) RESULTS: Evidence-based practice (EBP) refers to the systematic process whereby decisions are made, and actions or activities are undertaken using the best evidence available. The aim of evidence-based practice is to remove as far as possible, subjective opinions, unfounded beliefs, and/or biases from decisions and actions in clinical practice. (2,3) As a proposal for elite winter sport the process is defined in five steps. A. Identification of the relevant question. B. Check available evidence. C. Choose a setup. D. Choose parameters to investigate and statistics. E. Communication of the results to the stakeholders. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: The proposed model requires a shift in the way the research process should be conducted in elite sport. It is suggested that researchers need to consider from the outset how their research can be conducted with elite athletes in the actual sport environment and how it will ultimately be implemented to improve performance. Collaboration between coaches and research and development departments throughout implementation is key for a successful project.
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