BMX Racers Research, whether it is qualitative or quantitative in design, must be succinct, thorough, and best fit in order to achieve the intended results. Without proper controls, definition, and well-defined objectives the research endeavor is simply an ad hoc attempt to gather data and explain a particular phenomenon. Research must also command interest, enthusiasm, and passionate commitment to that which is being investigated. The purpose of the proposed research is to determine the differences that possibly exist in and amongst BMX (Bicycle Motocross Racing) racers with respect to the effect this extreme sport has on those who participate.

In order to accomplish the goals of the intended research project data will be collected by way of a short survey questionnaire wherein participants will be asked four (4) questions relative to the following:

The number of body scars received while participating in the sport.

The individual participants relative ranking in the sport.

3. Geographical demographics of the participants.

4. The age ranges for participants.

These four survey questions will permit the research investigator to garner ordinal (Question #1), nominal (Question #2), ratio (Question #3), and interval (Question #4) types of measurement data with which to examine the goals set forth by the research design. More specifically stated the goals of the present investigative research study are twofold: To determine whether or not, by way of descriptive statistical analysis (mean, mode, median, standard deviation, and box and whisker plots), there exists meaningful differences between participants with respect to the four questions stated above. To determine, on the basis of the descriptive statistical data analysis, whether or not enough differences appear to be present to warrant addition future research involving more sophisticated statistical data analysis by way of inferential statistical data analysis. Before, however, proceeding to the research study itself, however, a short scenario is necessary with respect to the sport itself.

BMX Racing Synopsis. Long before BMX racing became vogue as an extreme sport young people were challenging each other by racing their bicycles over dirt embankments, around sharp curves, and along pothole streets. Oftentimes they would be attired in bright colored jerseys and, at the time, funny...

Many was the time an observer could not tell whether the person on the bike was a biker or an advertisement for a clothing company. The sport, however, not only maintained itself but also developed into a well-organized and honed extreme sport. Although the beginning of what we know today as BMX racing has no specific origin as other sports might have had, kids with bikes have been testing their endurance on a bicycle for generations. However, the first recorded (i.e. televised) event was recorded in California in the early 70s; and it was a man by the name of Bruce Brown who recorded the event on film. This particular film projected the sport into worldwide participation and it has become known as a sport created by kids. Once the sport gained interest it quickly spread throughout the country and world. By 1977 a national sanctioning body (American Bicycle Association) was formed because so many BMX races were being staged through out the United States
Today BMX racing is an international sport activity that requires an extreme amount of training and one that is ordered and competitive. Those individuals participating in BMX racing today oftentimes attend clinics to improve their skills as well as practice several hours per day. Although any one can participate in BMX racing activities the sport is not for the faint of heart, non-dedicated, or out of shape individual. The sport requires significant cardio-vascular strength, toned muscles, physical stamina, and a competitive spirit.

Survey Questionnaire

(Your Name)

Questions (Please check where appropriate):

1.

a) In which geographical area do you reside?

West____ Mid-West____ Northwest____ South____ Southwest

East____ Northeast____ Southeast

b) What is your state of residence

2.

How many physical scars do you have as a result of racing?

1-2____ 3-4____ 5 or more

3.

What is your racing rank?

Novice____ Intermediate____ Expert

4.

What is your age group?

10-15____ 16-21____ 22-30____ 30 and above

Data Collection

Approval was obtained from the American Bicycle Association to mail questionnaires to 100 randomly selected individuals. In the event that some participants would not return the…