Ten Stride 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 objective of this test is to monitor the athlete's ability to efficiently accelerate from a standing start.
Required Resources
To undertake this test, you will require:
- Flat non-slip surface
- 30 metre tape measure
- Stopwatch
- Two assistants
How to conduct the test
This test requires the athlete to sprint as fast as possible over 20 metres.
- The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
- The assistants mark out a 20-metre straight section with cones
- The athlete starts in their own time and sprints as fast as possible over the 20 metres
- The 1st assistant records the time for the athlete to complete 10 strides starting the stopwatch on the athlete's 1st foot strike after starting and stopping the stopwatch on the landing of the 10th stride
- The 2nd assistant marks where the 10th stride lands, measures and records the distance to the start line
- The test is conducted 3 times
- Using the distances and times from the three sprints determine the average time and average distance and use these values in the online calculator below.
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.
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
- Two assistants required to administer the test
Free Calculator
- 10 Stride Calculator - a free Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that you can download and use on your computer.
Related References
The following references provide additional information on this topic:
- ROWE, D. et al. (2011) Stride rate recommendations for moderate intensity walking. Med Sci Sports Exerc, 43 (2), p. 312-318
Page Reference
If you quote information from this page in your work, then the reference for this page is:
- MACKENZIE, B. (1999) Ten Stride Test [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/10stride.htm [Accessed
Related Pages
The following Sports Coach pages provide additional information on this topic: