Pioneer Valley Youth Sports and Fitness Institute
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Testing and Evalution: Part 1
The process of designing a training program that is effective, efficient and safe constitutes the need for understanding a broad range of performance needs and demands.
Once a needs analysis has been conducted, it is fitting for field tests to be administered to athletes in order to make appropriate decisions concerning training methods for achieving training goals along with athletic potential. Understanding the testing, measurement, and evaluation process is necessary for making decisions before, during, and after and athletes’ training period.
Field tests are conducted in order to assess specific athletic talents in an applied setting. Measurement during the field tests allows data to be collected, which decisions for training programs are based on. The process of analyzing the test and measurement data is referred to as evaluation, which gives meaning to the tests and measurements.
Collecting test data allows for a systematic model for evaluation strength and conditioning programs. The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) suggest the following components be incorporated as a systematic evaluation model.
1. Program objectives allow for direction in the training program. It is necessary at the beginning to understand what is to be accomplished.
2. Preassessment tests allow for determination of the training level of the athletes and serve as a guide for program design and implementation.
3. Training prescription is thoughtfully designed to achieve overall program objectives forms the core of the conditioning program.
4. Postassessment tests involve measurement of an athlete’s achievement of the programs objectives.
5. Evaluation of the training prescription uses results of tests to make decisions as to whether or not the program objectives were achieved.
Formative evaluation, refer to field tests that run congruent with the training process. These determine the level of competency achieved by the athlete at that point and identify areas of the training program that necessitate emphasis relative to the individual athlete. The athlete will be able to evaluate his or her own strength and weaknesses, which in turn will make training more interesting and motivational.
Parameters used in testing an athlete’s physical fitness may cover a somewhat broad spectrum. Parameters often identified are muscle strength, muscular endurance, aerobic power, anaerobic power, agility, speed, flexibility, and body composition. It necessary to select the appropriate tests to administer in order to gather data that will allow for proper determination of athlete’s strength and weaknesses related to a particular sport.
Understanding the basis of the testing and evaluation process for assessing an athlete’s physical strengths and weaknesses for a specific sport is important. Identifying program objectives allows for an understanding of what needs to be accomplished. The testing and evaluation process serves as a guide for program design, achievement of program objectives, and for athletes to witness their strengths and weaknesses.
Testing and Evaluation: Part II will address physical fitness parameters in more depth, identifying appropriate test selection, testing procedures and testing protocols. If there are any questions regarding the basis for testing and evaluation of athletes please email Len Haggerty at apexspt@yahoo.com
Len Haggerty is a Sports Performance coach operating STRIES Performance & Wellness, Inc. in Northampton MA. As an enduring participant in sport and recreational activities he encourages youths, athletes, and adults of all ages and abilities to discover their athletic potential. If you have questions or comments, email them to len@strideshpi.net.
