'T' Drill 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 athlete's speed with directional change.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

• Flat non-slip surface
• Four cones
• Stopwatch
• Assistant

How to conduct the test

This test requires the athlete to touch a series of cones set out in “T” shape whilst side stepping and running as fast as possible.

• The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
• The assistant places 3 cones 5 metres apart on a straight line (A, B, C)and a 4th cone (D) is placed 10 metres from the middle cone (B) so that the 4 cones form a 'T'.
• The athlete stands at the cone (D) at the base of the “T” facing the “T”
• The assistant gives the signal to 'Go', starts the stopwatch and the athlete commences the test
• The athlete runs to and touches the middle cone (B) , side steps 5 metres to the left cone (A) and touches it, side step 10 metres to the far cone (C) and touches it, side step 5 metres back to the middle cone (B) and touches it and then runs 10 metres backwards to the base of the 'T' and touches that cone (D)
• The coach stops the stopwatch and records the time when the athlete touches the cone at the base of the “T”

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 in the athlete's speed.

Target Group

This test is suitable for active 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.

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

• Assistant required to administer the test

Page Reference

The reference for this page is:

• MACKENZIE, B. (2000) 'T' Drill Test [WWW] Available from: http://www.brianmac.co.uk/tdrill.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