Reasons for carrying out and limitations of fitness tests

Question 1

Give three reasons for carrying out fitness tests

Answer 1

Any from below:
To identify strengths and/or weaknesses in performance.
To inform your training requirements. What need to improve.
To show starting level of fitness.
To monitor improvement.
To guage success of training programme.
To compare against norms of the group/national averages.
To motivate/set goals.
To provide variety in training programme.

Question 2

Give three limitations of fitness testing

Answer 2

Any from below:
Tests are often not sport-specific and can be too general. E.g. Ruler drop test
Tests don’t replicate movements of activities
Tests don’t replicate competitive conditions required in sports. Many can be repeated.
Many tests have questionable reliability - observer may get score wrong.
Tests must be carried out with correct procedures and protocols, otherwise scores will not be accurate or valid.