30 metre Acceleration Test

Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made but in the analysis we need to bear in mind the factors that may influence the results.

Objective

The objective of this test is to monitor the development of the athlete's ability to effectively and efficiently build up acceleration, from a standing start or from starting blocks, to maximum speed.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

  • 400 metre track - with a 30 metre marked section on the straight
  • Stop watch
  • An assistant

How to conduct the test

The test comprises of 3 × 30 metre runs from a standing start or from starting blocks and with a full recovery between each run. The assistant should record the time for the athlete to complete the 30 metres.

Analysis

Analysis of the result is by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement.

Performance Assessment

For an evaluation of the athlete's performance select the gender, enter the time and then select the 'Calculate' button.

Gender Time seconds
 
Assessment -

Normative data for the 30 metre test

The following are national norms for 16 to 19 year olds.

Gender Excellent Above Average Average Below Average Poor
Male <4.0 4.2 - 4.0 4.4 - 4.3 4.6 - 4.5 >4.6
Female <4.5 4.6 - 4.5 4.8 - 4.7 5.0 - 4.9 >5.0

Table Reference: Davis B. et al; Physical Education and the Study of Sport; 2000

Target Group

This test is suitable for sprinters but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

101 Performance Evaluation Tests

Reliability

Test reliability refers to the degree to which a test is consistent and stable in measuring what it is intended to measure.

Reliability will depend upon how strict the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test.

Validity

Test validity refers to the degree to which the test actually measures what it claims to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions made on the basis of test scores are appropriate and meaningful. The test provides a guide to the athlete's potential future performance and a means to monitor the effect of training on the athlete's physical development. There are published tables to relate results to potential performance in competition (60 metres, 100 metres and 200 metres) and the correlation is high with experienced athletes.

Sprint time predictions

From the result of the 30 metres acceleration test it is possible to predict times for the 60 metres, 100 metres and 200 metres. Enter the time for the 30 metres acceleration test and then select the "Calculate" button.

Time - seconds
 
Predicted 60 metres time seconds
Predicted 100 metres time seconds
Predicted 200 metres time seconds

Free Calculator

Associated Pages

The following Sports Coach pages should be read in conjunction with this page: