The study of human performance is a rapidly advancing field fuelled by the dramatic advances in technology and the desire by athletes to push their bodies to their limits. As a result the parameters which can be measured are almost infinite. As a class we took a brief look at performance testing when we focused on the four components of physical fitness (muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance and flexibility) By conducting simple tests to determine scores for each component we can begin to look at fitness levels within the class. Cobourg Collegiate Institute 1
STANDARDIZED FITNESS TESTING Standardized Protocols The test protocols (how a test is to be administered and evaluated) need to be standardized so that comparisons can be made between... test scores performed at different times test scores performed by different people test scores performed at different places Athletes and coaches should be aware of the need to control factors which can affect the results obtained. Such things that need to be controlled are: the warm up, order of tests, recovery periods, environmental conditions, and fluid and nutritional status. If comparing test results to normative tables, the test must be conducted exactly the same as it was when the original test group was tested, for the comparison to be valid. Cobourg Collegiate Institute 2
Relevance: Is the test relevant? You need to select sport specific tests. If you believe that the tests are relevant to the sport you play, you will be more inclined to put a maximal effort into the testing. If not, you can be wasting valuable time on tests that are not relevant to your particular sport, and the results will be meaningless. Cobourg Collegiate Institute 3
Reliability: Is the test reliable A test is considered reliable if the results are consistent and reproducible over time. You should be able to obtain the same or similar result on two separate trials. This is important as you are often looking for small changes in scores. Some of the errors in recording of tests results can come about from poor following of the test protocols, equipment error, variability in environmental conditions and/or surfaces. Reliability can be improved by greater control of these variables, and by using competent and well trained testers, though there is still some variability expected. All the equipment used should be standard and regularly calibrated to the manufacturer's standards. If more than one test is being conducted at a time, the ordering of tests can affect results for each test, as can the training and fatigue of the athlete between test sessions. Cobourg Collegiate Institute 4
Validity: Is your test valid? Validity is whether the tests actually measure what they set out to. Tests can be reliable but not valid. The validity of a test is usually better if the test is specific to the sport being tested: i.e., the tests should resemble the sport being tested, so that similar actions and therefore the specific muscle groups and muscle fibre types actually used in the sport are being used. What if I ran this hockey shooting accuracy test in the gym with tennis balls and a floor hockey stick? Is this a valid test for ice hockey? Cobourg Collegiate Institute 5
Interpretable Results If you don't know what the numbers in the results mean, the tests are almost useless. The results must have meaning so that they can be applied to modify a training program. If you want to compare the results to that of other groups you must have access to normative data ('norms' or standards). These norms should be based on a large homogeneous population, be up to date, and preferably be of local origin. What can I conclude from the results? Was I better at the bottom targets than the top targets? Was I better at the right side targets than the left? Cobourg Collegiate Institute 6
Your task today is to select an aspect of human performance and research existing methods which can be used to measure (accurately, consistently and reliably) the chosen parameter. Your one page report MUST include... an introduction testing methodology in detail a diagram / image of set up or action required some form of comparison standards other pertinent relevant information Cobourg Collegiate Institute 7
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Below is a list of possible parameters. Select one to use for your test. No more than 3 students can choose the same topic and there will be NO duplication in tests. You have the full period to research and create your SINGLE PAGE assignment. We will continue with this assignment tomorrow if needed. vertical jump lung capacity fine motor coordination stability hand eye coordination reaction time agility balance oxygen uptake acceleration visual acuity memory / recall manual dexterity http://www.topendsports.com/testing/tests/index.htm Cobourg Collegiate Institute 9
Relevance: Is the test relevant to your sport or activity? Standardized test scores (norms): Does the test have norms to allow for easy and accurate comparison between test scores performed at different times, by different people and at different places? Validity: Is your test valid? Does it measure what it is supposed to measure. Reliability: Is the test reliable? Would you get similar results time after time? Standardized test protocols: Did the test have a standardized procedure so that comparisons can be made between test scores performed at different times by different people in different places? Interpretable Results: Do your results have meaning. NORMS AND RESULTS Cobourg Collegiate Institute 10