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:

• Flat non-slip surface
• Stopwatch
• An assistant

How to conduct the test

This test requires the athlete to sprint as fast as possible over 30 metres

• The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
• The assistant marks out a 30 metre straight section with cones
• The athlete starts in their own time and sprints as fast as possible over the 30 metres
• The assistant starts the stopwatch on the athlete's 1st foot strike after starting and stopping the stopwatch as the athlete’s torso crosses the finishing line
• The test is conducted 3 times
• The assistant uses the fastest recorded time to assess the athlete’s performance

Analysis

Analysis of the test result is by comparing it with the athlete's previous results for this test. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement in the athlete's acceleration.

Target Group

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

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. The following link provides a variety of factors that may influence the results and therefore the test reliability.

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.

Advantages

• Minimal equipment required
• Simple to set up and conduct
• The test can be administered by the athlete
• Can be conducted indoors or outdoors

Disadvantages

• Assistant required to administer the test

Free Calculator

• 30 metre Acceleration Calculator - a free Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that you can download and use on your computer.

Referenced Material

1. DICK, F. (1987) Sprints and Relays. 5th ed. London, BAAB, p. 22
2. DAVIS, B. et al. (2000) Physical Education and the Study of Sport. UK: Harcourt Publishers Ltd. p. 125 Table 4.6

Page Reference

The reference for this page is:

• MACKENZIE, B. (1995) 30 metre Acceleration Test [WWW] Available from: http://www.brianmac.co.uk/30accel.htm [Accessed

Associated Pages

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

• Articles on Performance Evaluation
• Evaluation and Performance Tests