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, devised in the USSR, is used to predict an athlete's 800 metre or 1500 metre time.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

• 400 metre track
• Stopwatch
• Assistant

How to conduct the test

This test requires the athlete to complete a series of one minute runs at maximum speed.

800m Test

• The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
• The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
• The athlete runs as fast as possible for 1 minute
• The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after 1 minute and records the total distance run
• The athlete has a 3 minute recovery
• The athlete starts from where they finished the last 1 minute run (cone marks the point)
• The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
• The athlete runs as fast as possible for 1 minute
• The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after 1 minute and records the total distance run
• The assistant uses this final total distance to assess the athlete’s performance

1500m Test

• The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
• The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
• The athlete runs as fast as possible for 1 minute
• The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after 1 minute and records the total distance run
• The athlete has a 3 minute recovery
• The athlete starts from where they finished the last 1 minute run (cone marks the point)
• The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
• The athlete runs as fast as possible for 1 minute
• The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after 1 minute and records the total distance run
• The athlete has a 2 minute recovery
• The athlete starts from where they finished the last 1 minute run (cone marks the point)
• The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
• The athlete runs as fast as possible for 1 minute
• The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after 1 minute and records the total distance run
• The athlete has a 1 minute recovery
• The athlete starts from where they finished the last 1 minute run (cone marks the point)
• The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
• The athlete runs as fast as possible for 1 minute
• The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after 1 minute and records the total distance run
• The assistant uses this final total distance to assess the athlete’s performance

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.

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 800m and/or 1500m predicted times.

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

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.

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.

Advantages

• Minimal equipment required
• Simple to set up and conduct
• The test can be administered by the athlete

Disadvantages

• Specific facilities required
• Assistant required to administer the test

Free Calculator

• Kosmin 800m and 1500m Calculator - a free Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that you can download and use on your computer.

Page Reference

The reference for this page is:

• MACKENZIE, B. (1997) Kosmin Test [WWW] Available from: http://www.brianmac.co.uk/kosmin.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