Anaerobic fitness can be tested using several methods, each designed to assess different aspects of anaerobic power and capacity. The choice of test depends on the specific goals, available equipment, and the population being tested. Here's a breakdown of common methods:
Field Tests
Field tests are practical and often require minimal equipment, making them suitable for large groups or situations where lab equipment isn't available.
Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST)
- Description: Developed in 1997 at the University of Wolverhampton, RAST measures anaerobic power and capacity.
- Protocol: Involves six 35-meter sprints with a 10-second recovery period between each sprint.
- Measurement: Time is recorded for each sprint. Power output is calculated for each sprint using formulas that consider body mass and sprint time.
- Advantages: Simple to administer and requires minimal equipment.
- Disadvantages: Results can be influenced by running technique and motivation.
Wingate Test (Modified for Field)
- Description: While typically performed on a cycle ergometer, modifications exist for field settings.
- Protocol: Involves sprinting at maximal effort for a set duration (e.g., 30 seconds) against a resistance. A field version might involve resisted running or repeated sprint tests.
- Measurement: Distance covered, or velocity achieved, is measured.
- Advantages: Relatively easy to implement in a field setting with some modifications.
- Disadvantages: May not be as accurate or controlled as a lab-based Wingate test.
Vertical Jump Test
- Description: A simple measure of lower body power.
- Protocol: Athlete jumps as high as possible, and the difference between standing reach and jump height is measured.
- Measurement: Jump height (cm or inches).
- Advantages: Very easy to administer and requires minimal equipment.
- Disadvantages: Only assesses explosive power, not anaerobic capacity. Can be influenced by technique.
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests offer more controlled environments and precise measurements, but they often require specialized equipment and trained personnel.
Wingate Anaerobic Test
- Description: The gold standard for assessing anaerobic power and capacity.
- Protocol: Performed on a cycle ergometer. The participant pedals maximally against a predetermined resistance for 30 seconds.
- Measurement: Peak power, mean power, and fatigue index are calculated based on revolutions per minute (RPM) and resistance.
- Advantages: Provides reliable and valid measures of anaerobic performance.
- Disadvantages: Requires specialized equipment and trained personnel. Can be very fatiguing.
Lactate Threshold Testing
- Description: Assesses the point at which lactate begins to accumulate rapidly in the blood, indicating a shift towards anaerobic metabolism.
- Protocol: Involves incremental exercise (e.g., on a treadmill or cycle ergometer) with blood lactate measurements taken at each stage.
- Measurement: Lactate concentration in the blood.
- Advantages: Provides valuable information about the individual's ability to sustain high-intensity exercise.
- Disadvantages: Requires blood sampling and specialized equipment.
Considerations When Choosing a Test
- Specificity: Select a test that closely resembles the activities for which anaerobic fitness is being assessed. (e.g., if testing for sprinting, use a sprint test).
- Equipment: Choose a test that uses available equipment.
- Population: Consider the age, fitness level, and any physical limitations of the individuals being tested.
- Validity and Reliability: Select a test that has been shown to be valid (measures what it is supposed to measure) and reliable (produces consistent results).
Testing anaerobic fitness involves selecting an appropriate assessment method based on specific needs and resources, encompassing both field and laboratory options to evaluate distinct aspects of anaerobic capabilities.
