Yo-Yo Endurance 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.

There are two versions of the "Yo-Yo Endurance Test" developed by Bangsbo (1994)^[1] which are both similar to the Beep test. The version one test, designed for recreational players, is the same as the standard Beep test. Version 2, designed for elite players, starts at a higher running speed and has different increments in speed.

Objective

The objective of the "Yo-Yo Endurance Test" is to monitor the development of the athlete's maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max).

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require :

Flat non-slippery surface
30 metre tape measure
Marking cones
The Yo-Yo Endurance test CD
CD Player
Recording sheets
Assistant

How to conduct the test

This test requires the athlete to run 20m in time with a beep from a CD recording. The athlete must place one foot on or beyond the 20m marker at the end of each shuttle.

The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
The assistant measure out a 20 metre section and marks each end with marker cones
The assistant starts the CD and the athlete commences the test
The assistant keeps a record of each completed lap (20m)
If the athlete arrives at the end of a shuttle before the beep, the athlete must wait for the beep and then resume running
If the athlete fails to reach the end of the shuttle before the beep they should be allowed 2 or 3 further shuttles to attempt to regain the required pace before being withdrawn
The assistant records the number of laps completed by the athlete when they are withdrawn

Yo-Yo Test

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 was developed specifically for soccer players, though it is suitable for similar sports where the athlete's participation is intermittent. The test is not suitable for individuals where a maximal exercise 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

Specialist equipment required
Assistant required to administer the test

Referenced Material

BANGSBO, J. (1994) Fitness Training in Football: A Scientific Approach. August Krogh Institute: Copenhagen University.

Page Reference

The reference for this page is:

MACKENZIE, B. (2008) YO-YO Endurance Test [WWW] Available from: http://www.brianmac.co.uk/yoyoet.htm [Accessed

Associated Pages

The following Sports Coach pages should be read in conjunction with this page:

Ultimate Guide to Stretching & Flexibility