There are countless performance evaluation exercise tests that can reveal a variety of information. The National Strength and Conditioning Association asserts that the type of performance evaluation exercise chosen depends on factors such as the sport performed, age, gender and training level. While an overwhelming number of tests are available for athletes and coaches to use, the National Strength and Conditioning Association says all tests can fit under broad categories of which athletic ability they are testing.
Muscular Strength
Maximum muscular strength is reflected by the maximum force a muscle group can exert for one repetition. Common muscular strength exercises include the one-repetition maximum bench press and the one-repetition maximum back squat. Athletes should be completely warmed up before performing either of these tests.
Muscular Power
Muscular power is a measurement of combined strength and speed of movement. Such tests are very short in duration and produce high power outputs. Common muscular power tests include the one-repetition power clean, standing long jump and vertical jump.
Anaerobic Capacity
Anaerobic capacity refers to the maximal energy produced by the anaerobic energy system. These tests are also short in duration, usually under one minute. Probably the most common anaerobic capacity test is the 300-yard shuttle run.
Local Muscular Endurance
Local muscular endurance is described as the ability of a particular muscle group to perform repeated contractions. Examples of local muscular endurance tests include maximum curl-up and push-up tests, which measure muscular endurance in the abdominal muscles and pectorals, respectively.
Aerobic Capacity
Aerobic capacity is the maximum energy produced through the oxygen, or aerobic system. Aerobic capacity tests can vary and are specific to the metabolic demands of a particular sport. Two common standardized tests are the 1.5-mile run and the 12-minute run.
Agility
Agility is the ability to change direction with a minimal loss of speed. Agility tests are usually timed and require athletes to navigate through marked cones or lines. Some common agility tests include the T-test, hexagon test and pro agility test.
Speed
Speed refers to the maximum distance an athlete can cover in a minimal amount of time. Speed tests are specific to the sport being trained for and can vary in distance and duration. Probably the most common measure of speed is the 40-yard dash, a staple in NFL training camps.
Flexibility
Flexibility is the range of motion around a particular joint. The sit-and-reach test is a common measure of an athlete's general flexibility. Flexibility can be measured at any joint in the body.
References
- "Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning"; Thomas R. Baechle and Roger W. Earle (eds.); 2008
- "Essentials of Personal Training"; Roger W. Earle and Thomas R. Baechle, (eds.); 2004
- NSCA
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