How to conduct fitness testing

Question 1

Test protocols

Answer 1

Ensuring the participant has a clear understanding of the testing process will help them to prepare from a physiological perspective. Players ‘rights and facilitators’ responsibilities are an essential aspect of fitness and training. IT is a must that all risks are explained to the performer before they participate

Question 2

Informed consent

Answer 2

Most accredited fitness centres now have standard forms for their clients to complete that give their acknowledgement of risks associated with the fitness testing and training programs they are about to undertake

Question 3

Test reliability

Answer 3

A fitness test must also be reliable; that is, it must be able to be replicated with consistency. For a test to be reliable, the only variable that should change between tests is the participant

Question 4

Test accuracy

Answer 4

Fitness test accuracy means that the results are a true reflection of what is being tested. There are many ways to increase the accuracy of fitness testing including

Calibrating equipment
Using specialised technology
Increased participant understanding of instructions

Question 5

Fitness test battery

Answer 5

Testing sessions should be scheduled to coincide with the beginning and the end of the training phase so that effectiveness can be assessed.