400m 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

Frank Horwill's 40 yard (36. 6 metres) test is used to predict an athlete's potential 400 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 40 yards (36.6 metres) from a crouch start
  • The assistance records the time
  • Repeat the test 2 or 3 times and note the best time

The athlete's potential 400m time, in seconds, can be calculated as follows:

  • Male athletes = (Time for 40 yards × 10) + 2
  • Female athletes = (Time for 40 yards × 10) + 4

400m Calculator

Enter the 40 yard time, Gender and then select the "Calculate" button for an analysis of the athlete's potential 400 metre time.

40 yard time seconds Gender
     
Predicted 400 metre time is: 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

Reliability would depend upon, how strict the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test.

Validity

There are published tables to relate results to potential performance in competition and the correlation is high.

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.

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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