Informed consent in sport science

Obtaining informed consent is a prerequisite for a subject’s participation in a research project. Informed consent is the potential subject’s formal agreement to take part in a research project. The process of obtaining consent includes providing subjects with adequate information. Important components of a written informed consent document include plain-language statements about the research design, the risks and benefits of taking part, and the assurance of confidentiality. The informed consent document should be culturally sensitive, make clear the subject’s right to withdraw without obligation, and include an invitation to ask questions about the project. Responsibility for obtaining informed consent rests with the researcher.