Fitness Testing

Question 1

What are the reasons for fitness training?

Answer 1

• Track fitness over a given period of time
• Highlight strengths and weaknesses
• Determine current state of health
• Selection processes
• Starting point for training
• Provide targets for improvement

Question 2

What are maximal tests?

Answer 2

Subject has to make ‘all out’ effort - a test to exhaustion

Question 3

What are the advantages of maximal tests?

Answer 3

Considered a more accurate test

Question 4

What are the disadvantages of maximal testing?

Answer 4

• Lack of motivation/effort can play a negative part to test results
• Possible danger of injury/over exertion

Question 5

Give examples of maximal testing

Answer 5

Cooper run, multi fitness testing & 30m sprint

Question 6

What is submaximal testing?

Answer 6

Tests that are not exhaustive and don’t require the performer to perform at maximum levels.

Results are compared to tables to estimate maximum capacities meaning they have limited accuracy.

Question 7

What are the limitations of testing?

Answer 7

• Frequency of tests will require on the athletes training programme, costs, injury and competition
• Testing can hinder or interfere with training programmes causing fatigue and potential injury
• Knowledge of results can have a negative impact upon motivation
• Testing can range between 2 weeks and 6 months

Question 8

What is specificity?

Answer 8

Test must mimic the sporting actions used within that sport

Question 9

What is validity?

Answer 9

The test must measure what it aims to measure

Question 10

What are the ethical issues with testing?

Answer 10

• People need to be willing to participate
• Consent must be given
• Some tests are invasive
• Health history etc.