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Kosmin 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.

Objectives

The Kosmin Test, devised in the USSR, predicts an athlete's 800 metres or 1500 metres time.

Required Resources

To conduct this test, you will require:

  • 400-metre track
  • Stopwatch
  • Assistant

How to conduct the test

This test requires the athlete to complete a series of one-minute runs at maximum speed.

800m Test

  • The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
  • The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
  • The athlete runs as fast as possible for one minute
  • The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after one minute and records the total distance run
  • The athlete has a three-minute recovery
  • The athlete starts from where they finished the last one-minute run (cone marks the point)
  • The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
  • The athlete runs as fast as possible for one minute
  • The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after one minute and records the total distance run
  • The assistant uses this final total distance to assess the athlete's performance

1500m Test

  • The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
  • The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
  • The athlete runs as fast as possible for one minute
  • The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after one minute and records the total distance run
  • The athlete has a three-minute recovery
  • The athlete starts from where they finished the last one-minute run (cone marks the point)
  • The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
  • The athlete runs as fast as possible for one minute
  • The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after one minute and records the total distance run
  • The athlete has a two-minute recovery
  • The athlete starts from where they finished the last one-minute run (cone marks the point)
  • The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
  • The athlete runs as fast as possible for one minute
  • The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after one minute and records the total distance run
  • The athlete has a one-minute recovery
  • The athlete starts from where they finished the last one minute run (cone marks the point)
  • The assistant gives the command “GO” and starts the stopwatch
  • The athlete runs as fast as possible for one minute
  • The assistant marks the point where the athlete reached after one minute and records the total distance run
  • The assistant uses this final total distance to assess the athlete's performance

Assessment

Predicted 800m time

To estimate your potential 800m times, select your gender, enter the total distances covered and then select the 'Calculate' button.

Gender Distance metres   800m Time minutes seconds

Predicted 1500m time

To estimate your potential 1500m times, select your gender, enter the total distances covered and then select the 'Calculate' button.

Gender Distance metres   1500m Time minutes seconds

Kosmin Tables

Due to their size, the Kosmin tables have not been included here. However, the athlete's potential 800 metres or 1500 metres time can be predicted using the Total Distance covered in the following appropriate equation.

Gender Distance Equation
Male 800 metres Time=217.77778 - (Total Distance x 0.119556)
Female 800 metres Time=1451.46 - (198.54 x Log (Total Distance))
Male 1500 metres Time=500.52609 - (Total Distance x 0.162174)
Female 1500 metres Time=(500.52609 - (Total Distance x 0.162174)) + 10

Analysis

Analysis of the test result compares with the athlete's previous results for this test. It is expected that the investigation would indicate an improvement in the athlete's 800m and 1500m predicted times with appropriate training between each test.

Target Group

This test is suitable for middle-distance athletes but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

Reliability

Test reliability refers to how a test is consistent and stable in measuring its intended 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 various factors influencing the results and therefore, the test reliability.

The equations can be used for male and female athletes, but they tend to overpredict female athletes. The online calculators here have considered adjustments for female athletes.

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 training on the athlete's physical development.

Advantages

  • Minimal equipment required
  • Simple to set up and conduct
  • The athlete can administer the test

Disadvantages

  • Specific facilities required
  • Assistant required to administer the test

Free Calculator

Page Reference

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

  • MACKENZIE, B. (1997) Kosmin Test [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/kosmin.htm [Accessed