60 metre Speed 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

To monitor the development of the sprint athlete's acceleration and pick up to full flight.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

• 400m Track
• Stopwatch
• An assistant

How to conduct the test

This test requires the athlete to sprint as fast as possible over 60 metres

• The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
• The assistant marks out a 60 metre straight section on the track with cones
• The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
• The athlete sprints as fast as possible over the 60 metres
• The assistant stops the stopwatch as the athlete’s torso crosses the finishing line and records the time
• The test is conducted 3 times
• The assistant uses the fastest recorded time to assess the athlete’s performance

This test can be combined with the flying 30 metre test.

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 acceleration and pick up to full flight.

Target Group

This test is suitable for sprinters 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.

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
• Can be conducted almost anywhere

Disadvantages

• Specific facilities required
• Assistant required to administer the test

Page Reference

The reference for this page is:

• MACKENZIE, B. (1999) 60 metre Speed Test [WWW] Available from: http://www.brianmac.co.uk/speed60.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