Biceps Curl 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 assess the strength of the athlete's elbow flexors

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

  • A set of dumbbells ranging from 1.4kg (3lbs) to at least 22.7kg (50lb). The smaller the dumbbell increments the better the resolution for determining 1RM
  • Seat with back rest adjusted to an angle of 30 degrees to the vertical
  • Assistant

How to conduct the test

  • Check that the inclined back rest is at 30 degrees to the vertical
  • The initial dumbbell weight should be selected according to the estimated strength of the athlete. For untrained subjects this ranges from 6 kg to 12 kg for males and 3 kg to 6 kg for females
  • The correct technique requires that the subject stands behind the inclined surface with the arm and supinated (palm up) forearm resting on the inclined surface
  • The assistant hands the athlete the dumbbell which also rests against the inclined surface
  • Avoiding any jerking motions, the athlete attempts to flex the elbow to a vertical forearm position. When this position is attained, the dumbbell is taken by the tester.
  • If the athlete can successfully complete one repetition, repeat the procedure after one minute, adding an additional weight to the previous resistance
  • Continue with this procedure, allowing one minute recovery between attempts until the 1RM has been determined
  • Record the final resistance

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.

Target Group

This test is suitable for active athletes 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. This test provides a means to monitor the effect of training on the athlete's physical development.

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