Cunningham and Faulkner Test

Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made. In the analysis, we need to consider the factors influencing the results.

Objective

This test (Cunningham & Faulkner 1969) monitors the development of the athlete's anaerobic capacity.

Required Resources

To conduct this test, you will require:

Treadmill
Stopwatch
Assistant

How to conduct the test

This test requires the athlete to run on a treadmill set at a speed of 8 miles/hour and an incline of 20% (11.3°) until unable to continue.

The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
The assistant sets the treadmill speed to 8.0 miles/hr (12.9 km/hr) and an incline of 20% (11.3°)
The athlete conducts a few practice starts getting onto the treadmill at the test speed
The assistant gives the command "GO", starts the stopwatch, and the athlete commences the test
The assistant stops the stopwatch when the athlete is unable to continue

Assessment

I have been unable to locate any normative data for this test.

Analysis

The test result is analysed by comparing it with the athlete's previous results for this test. It is expected that the analysis would indicate an improvement in the athlete's anaerobic capacity with appropriate training between each test.

Target Group

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

Reliability

Test reliability refers to how a test is consistent and stable in measuring its intended 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 various factors influencing the results and therefore, test reliability.

Validity

Test validity refers to the degree to which the test measures what it claims to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions based on test scores are appropriate and meaningful. This test provides a means to monitor training on the athlete's physical development.

Advantages

Minimal equipment required
Simple to set up and conduct

Disadvantages

Specialist equipment required - treadmill
Assistant required to administer the test

References

CUNNINGHAM, D.A. and FAULKNER, J.A. (1969) The effect of training on aerobic and anaerobic metabolism during a short exhaustive run. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 1 (2), p. 57-64

Page Reference

If you quote information from this page in your work, then the reference for this page is:

MACKENZIE, B. (2005) Cunningham and Faulkner Test [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/cunandf.htm [Accessed