An exploratory analysis of the interrelationship of the seven events in the women´s heptathlon with structural equation derived path models

The interrelationship between multiple event sports, such as the women´s heptathlon has important implications for both competition and training to optimize training and competition transfer between events. The more complex relationships between the individual seven events in the heptathlon can be addressed through multivariate statistical analysis, defined as structural equation modeling and path analysis. Conceptual models have been presented which explain the underpinning motor fitness factors thought to enhance performance for each event in the heptathlon. Path analysis was applied to assess the conceptual interrelatedness of the events based on a sample of 171 top ranked IAAF women heptathletes for the 2010 IAAF season. The results indicated minimal direct and indirect effects existed between the seven heptathlon events and the degree of competition and training transfer between the events implies that events should be trained in isolation.