Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming sports coaching, offering new tools to enhance athlete performance and training methods. However, the balance between leveraging AI’s capabilities and maintaining the human touch in coaching remains a critical challenge. This study investigates how AI can be effectively integrated into sports coaching while maintaining the essential human elements of leadership, mentorship, and personalized support. The research aims to provide a framework for combining AI technology with traditional coaching strategies to optimize performance. Using Grounded Theory (GT) methodology, the study conducted expert interviews and performed a detailed literature review to understand the interaction between AI and sports coaching. The resulting “Synergy Theory” model explains how AI can enhance training while highlighting the importance of maintaining ethical standards and human-centered coaching practices. The research reveals that AI can considerably improve performance analysis, injury prevention, and training customization. However, over-reliance on AI risks undermining the human aspects of coaching. The findings underscore the need for technological literacy among coaches and the ethical integration of AI in sports. Challenges such as data quality, resistance to technology, and privacy concerns must also be addressed. The present article is one of the first studies to comprehensively explore the ethical, practical, and technical considerations of integrating AI into sports coaching. This study also offers practical recommendations for balancing AI technology with traditional coaching methods.

Sajjad Pashaie

Sardar Mohammadi

Hamed Golmohammadi

Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Part P Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology

体育工程与技术杂志涵盖了新型运动服装、鞋类和设备的开发；以及使运动进步成为可能的材料、仪器和工艺。

The Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part P: Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology covers the development of innovative sports apparel, footwear, and equipment, as well as the materials, instruments, and processes that enable advancements in sports.

《Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part P: Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology》涵盖了新型运动服装、鞋类和设备的开发，以及推动运动进步所需的材料、仪器和工艺。

Category	Quartile
医学	4
医学, 工程机械	4
医学, 运动科学	4

Unlocking athlete potential: The evolution of coaching strategies through artificial intelligence

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Journal Info

Category	Quartile
SPORT SCIENCES	3