A strength-based approach to athlete engagement: an exploratory study

Abstract

Strength-based interventions have proven effective in the sport and athletic environment in a number of studies. However, few studies have investigated the effect of an integrated strength-based approach on positive athlete outcomes. This study investigated the effect of team-strength use and individual strength use on athlete engagement. Participants were 235 semi-professional athletes from South Africa’s major sports, football and rugby. A cross-sectional, quantitative and exploratory research design was implemented. Structural equation modelling was used to determine the empirical validity of the relationship between the variables. Statistical analyses revealed individual strength use as a predictor of athlete engagement, and team-strength use as an enabler of individual strength use. Individual strength use further mediated the relationship between team-strength use and athlete engagement. These findings provide valuable knowledge content in terms of the development of athletes through a strength-based approach. The authors discuss the practical implications of the results and make recommendations for interventions and future research