Collecting and Recording Data

This lesson focuses on the practical details of collecting and recording data throughout your PEP. Data is what makes your PEP evidence-based rather than opinion-based. Without clear, accurate, well-presented data, it is impossible to demonstrate that your programme worked (or did not work). This lesson covers training diary formats, what to record during each session, mid-programme testing, and how to present your data effectively.

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Why Data Matters

The levels-based mark scheme rewards PEPs that are supported by evidence. At every level, the quality and use of data increases:

Level	Data Expectation
Level 1–2	Little or no data; generic statements without evidence
Level 3	Some data collected; may be inconsistently recorded; limited analysis
Level 4	Thorough data collection; consistently recorded; data used to support evaluations
Level 5	Comprehensive data collection and presentation; sophisticated analysis; data used to evaluate targets and justify conclusions

Exam Tip: Think of your PEP as a scientific investigation. The pre-PEP fitness tests are your baseline measurements, the training programme is your method, the training diary is your results, and the evaluation is your conclusion. Just as a science investigation needs accurate data to draw valid conclusions, your PEP needs accurate data to achieve the higher levels.

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What to Record in Every Session

Different training methods require different data. Use the tables below as a guide for what to record.

Cardiovascular Training (Continuous, Fartlek, HIIT, Interval)

Data Point	Why You Record It	Example
Date and session number	Tracks chronological order and total sessions completed	Monday 20 January 2026 — Session 5
Duration	Shows the time element of FITT; needed to demonstrate overload	35 minutes
Route or location	Allows you (and the examiner) to understand the terrain and conditions	Victoria Park — flat grass with one hill
Average heart rate (bpm)	Shows the overall intensity of the session	145 bpm (71% MHR)
Peak heart rate (bpm)	Shows the highest intensity reached during sprints/bursts	186 bpm (91% MHR)
Distance covered	Shows the volume of work completed	4.2 km
Pace intervals	For fartlek: records the pattern of fast/slow sections	3 min jog → 1 min sprint → 3 min jog → 2 min run → ...
RPE (1–10)	A subjective measure of how hard the session felt	7/10
Weather conditions	May affect performance and is relevant if training outdoors	8°C, light rain, slight headwind

Resistance Training (Weight Training, Circuit Training)

Data Point	Why You Record It	Example
Exercise name	Identifies the movement and muscle groups worked	Barbell back squat
Sets	Shows volume of work	3 sets
Reps	Shows volume per set	10 reps per set
Weight / resistance (kg)	Shows intensity; needed to demonstrate overload	45 kg
Rest between sets	Shows the recovery element	90 seconds
Tempo	How fast the movement is performed (advanced)	2 seconds down, 1 second pause, 2 seconds up
RPE	Subjective difficulty rating	7/10
Total volume	Sets × reps × weight — a useful summary measure	3 × 10 × 45 = 1,350 kg

Flexibility Training

Data Point	Why You Record It	Example
Stretch performed	Identifies the joint and movement	Seated hamstring stretch (hip flexion)
Duration of hold	Shows the time under stretch	30 seconds
Number of repetitions	Shows volume	3 repetitions per leg
Type of stretch	Static, dynamic, or PNF	Static
Range of movement achieved	Measurable indicator of flexibility	Reached 4 cm past toes on sit and reach

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Using Heart Rate Data

Heart rate is one of the most powerful data sources in a PEP because it provides an objective measure of intensity. If you have access to a heart rate monitor (many smartphones and fitness watches can track this), use it.

Key heart rate values for your PEP:

Metric	Calculation	Example (Age 15)
Maximum Heart Rate (MHR)	220 − age	220 − 15 = 205 bpm
Aerobic zone (lower)	60% × MHR	0.60 × 205 = 123 bpm
Aerobic zone (upper)	80% × MHR	0.80 × 205 = 164 bpm
Anaerobic zone (lower)	80% × MHR	0.80 × 205 = 164 bpm
Anaerobic zone (upper)	90% × MHR	0.90 × 205 = 185 bpm

How to use heart rate data in your PEP: