1500 metre Predictor 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 1500 metre Predictor Test is used to predict an athlete's 1500 metre time.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

400 metre track
Stop watch
An assistant

How to conduct the test

The athlete is required to run 2 sets of

400 metres
45 seconds Recovery
800 metres
90 seconds Recovery
300 metres
3 minutes Recovery

The time for each run is recorded and the accumulated time for each set is recorded. The average time of these two accumulated times is the predicted 1500 metres time for the athlete.

Example

Set 1
- 400 metres in 63 seconds
- 800 metres in 129 seconds
- 300 metres in 48 seconds

Accumulated time for set 1 is 240 seconds (4 minutes)

Set 2
- 400 metres in 67 seconds
- 800 metres in 164 seconds
- 300 metres in 52 seconds

Accumulated time for set 2 is 283 seconds (4 minutes 43 seconds)

Average time of the two accumulated times is (240 + 283) ÷ 2 = 261.5 seconds

Predicted time for the 1500 metres is 4 minutes 21.5 seconds

When to use

To predict performance and monitor progress this test 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)

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.

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 workbook, 101 Performance Evaluation Tests, is the largest, most complete and authoritative collection of sports performance evaluation tests there is. It is an essential tool for anyone wanting to predict athletic performance or evaluate 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, metre, performance, evaluation, time, predictor, sport, information, assess, training, analysis, decisions, predict, athlete, physical, potential, runner, education, recovery, measure, 1500