Kosmin 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.

Objectives

The Kosmin Test was devised in the USSR to predict an athlete's 800 metre or 1500 metre time.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

  • 400 metre track
  • Stop watch
  • An assistant

How to conduct the test

800 metres

  • The athlete is required to run two controlled maximal efforts of 60 seconds with a recovery of 3 minutes. The athlete commences their second run from the point where the first run was completed. The total distance covered by the two runs is recorded

1500 metres

  • The athlete is required to run four controlled maximal efforts of 60 seconds with a diminishing recovery of 3 minutes, 2 minutes and 1 minute. The athlete commences their next run from the point where the previous run was completed. The total distance covered by the four runs is recorded

Kosmin Tables

Due to their size, the Kosmin tables have not been included here. However, the athlete's potential 800 metre or 1500 metre time can be predicted by using the Total Distance covered in the following appropriate equation.

Gender Distance Equation
Male 800 metres Time=217.77778 - (Total Distance x 0.119556)
Female 800 metres Time=1451.46 - (198.54 x Log (Total Distance))
Male 1500 metres Time=500.52609 - (Total Distance x 0.162174)
Female 1500 metres Time=(500.52609 - (Total Distance x 0.162174)) + 10

The Kosmin Tables could be created by using these equations in a spreadsheet package e.g. Microsoft Excel.

Kosmin 800m Calculator

For an estimate of your potential 800m time select your gender, enter the total distances covered and then select the 'Calculate' button.

Gender Distance metres
     
800m Time minutes seconds

Kosmin 1500m Calculator

For an estimate of your potential 1500m time select your gender, enter the total distances covered and then select the 'Calculate' button.

Gender Distance metres
     
1500m Time minutes seconds

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 middle distance athletes 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.

Limitations

The equations can be used for male and female athletes but they do tend to over predict for female athletes. The on line calculators here have taken adjustments for female athletes into consideration.

When to use

To predict performance and monitor progress the Kosmin tests can be used at the:

  • beginning of the winter training to establish a baseline (September/October)
  • just prior to indoor racing (December/January)
  • just prior to the outdoor season (March/April)

Free Calculator

101 Performance Evaluation Tests

101 Performance Evaluation Tests

Periodic testing and measuring is the only way to get the up-to-date, accurate and objective information you need to assess current performance, then make informed decisions about future training and competition goals.

This brand new workbook, 101 Performance Evaluation Tests, is the largest, most complete and authoritative collection of sports performance evaluation tests there is. And it is an essential tool for anyone wanting to predict athletic performance or evaluate an athlete`s current level of fitness.

Select this link for more information on "101 Performance Evaluation Tests".

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, test, kosmin, 800, 1500, performance, athlete, predict, evaluation, potential, running, analysis, assess, physical, runner, equation, training, education, measure, decisions