40-metre Multiple Sprint Test

Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made. In the analysis, we need to consider the factors influencing the results.

Objective

The objective of this test is to monitor the athlete's level of sprint fatigue.

Required Resources

To conduct this test, you will require:

Flat non-slip surface
Starting Blocks
Stopwatch
An assistant

How to conduct the test

This test requires the athlete to complete 6 x 40 metre sprint time trials.

The athlete warms up for 10 minutes.
The assistant marks a 40-metre straight section with cones on the track.
The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch.
The athlete sprints the 40 metres as fast as possible.
The assistant stops the stopwatch when the athlete's torso crosses the finishing line and records the time.
The athlete rests for 30 seconds.
The athlete performs 6 x 40m sprints with 30 seconds recovery between each sprint, and the assistant records the time for each of the 40-metre sprints.

Assessment

I have been unable to locate any normative data for this test.

To evaluate the athlete's fatigue level, enter the six 40m sprint times and then select the 'Calculate' button. The difference between the total and optimal times (fatigue level) will be displayed.

1st 40m secs		2nd 40m secs
3rd 40m secs		4th 40m secs
5th 40m secs		6th 40m secs
		Fatigue Level

Fatigue level is calculated as follows: Total Time for the six sprints - (Fastest Time x 6)

Analysis

The test result is analysed by comparing it with the athlete's previous results for this test. The analysis would likely indicate an improvement in the athlete's speed and fatigue level with appropriate training between tests.

Target Group

This test is suitable for runners but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

Reliability

Test reliability refers to how 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 influencing the results and test reliability.

Validity

Test validity refers to the degree to which the test measures what it claims to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions based on 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 indoors or outdoors

Disadvantages

Assistant required to administer the test

Free Calculator

The 40-metre multiple Sprint Test Calculator is a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet you can download and use on your computer.

Page Reference

If you quote information from this page in your work, then the reference for this page is:

MACKENZIE, B. (2006) 40 metre Multiple Sprint Test [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/40sprint.htm [Accessed