How many repetitions under a given treatment or condition are required to establish a baseline? Does it just depend or is there a set recommendation?
Recommended minimum number of repetitions is typically three sessions
To establish a baseline under a given treatment or condition, the recommended minimum number of repetitions is typically three sessions. This guideline is supported by various studies, which suggest that three sessions can sufficiently identify trends in baseline data, allowing for future predictions and assessments of patterns [2].
However, this number can vary depending on several factors, such as the nature of the treatment or condition being studied, the variability of the data, and the specific metrics being measured. In some cases, more repetitions may be necessary to ensure a robust baseline that accurately represents the underlying conditions. Thus, while three sessions are often cited as a standard, researchers should consider their specific context and objectives when determining the optimal number of repetitions.
In summary, while three repetitions is a common recommendation for establishing a baseline, it's essential to evaluate the specific requirements of your situation to determine if more are needed.
Sources:
- [1] Optimal number of baseline sessions before changing phases within...
- [2] INTRAC - Baselines