Balke VO2 max 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 the Balke test is to monitor the development of the athlete's VO2 max.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require :

  • 400m track
  • Stop watch
  • Assistant

How to conduct the test

The Balke Test is conducted as follows:

  • Choose a windless day and run around a track for 15 minutes
  • The assistant notes the total distance run to the nearest 25 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 estimate of your VO2 max enter the total distances covered and then select the 'Calculate' button.

Distance metres VO2 Max mls/kg/min

The formula used to calculate VO2 max ("Obsession for Running" by Frank Horwill) is:

  • (((Total distance covered ÷ 15) - 133) × 0.172) + 33.3

For an analysis of your VO2 max score see the VO2 max page.

Target Group

This test is suitable for endurance athletes and players of endurance sports (e.g. football, rugby) 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.

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. This test provides a means to monitor the effect of training on the athlete's physical development. There are published VO2 max tables and the correlation to actual VO2 max is high. For an assessment of your Vo2 max see the VO2 max normative data tables.

Related Research Papers

  • Balke B (1963) "A simple field test for the assessment of physical fitness". Civil Aeromedical Research Institute report, 63-68. Oklahoma City Federal Aviation Agency

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Associated Pages

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

Associated Books

The following books provide more information related to this topic:

  • Advanced Studies in Physical Education and Sport, P Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 4482345
  • Physical Education and the Study of Sport, B. Davis et al., ISBN 0 7234 31752
  • Essentials of Exercise Physiology, W.D. McArdle et al., ISBN 0 683 30507 7
  • Physical Education and Sport Studies, D. Roscoe et al., ISBN 1 901424 20 0
  • The World of Sport Examined, P. Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 438719 9
  • Advanced PE for Edexcel, F. Galligan et al., ISBN 0 435 50643 9
  • Examining Physical Education, K. Bizley, ISBN 0 435 50660 9
  • Sport and PE, K Wesson et al., ISBN 0 340 683821
  • PE for you, J. Honeybourne, ISBN 0 7487 3277 2

Keywords: validity, reliability, balke, evaluation, performance, endurance, tests, sport, oxygen, analysis, monitor, development, physical, assessment, vo2max, distance, athlete, education, result, total, measure, decisions, training