Workshop: Laboratory Assessment of Physical Performance
The aim of this workshop is to gain insight into theoretical backgrounds and applications of physical performance tests. Aerobic VO2max and anaerobic Wingate tests will be demonstrated.
In general, physical performance is determined by the individual capacity for maximal energy output. Athletes can benefit from a testing protocol in two different ways. First, physiological tests can provide information regarding the strength and weaknesses. This information can be used as base line data to plan individual training programs. Second, laboratory testing provides feedback about the effectiveness of a training program. For example before and after a training camp.
Some general considerations are important for effective testing. Tests should be sport specific. For example, runners should be tested while running. Furthermore, it is important that the tested physiological variables are relevant to the sport. In distance running, a high aerobic capacity is essential. Whereas 100 meters sprinting requires high anaerobic power output. To evaluate the effectiveness of training programs performance tests should be repeated at regular intervals. Therefore tests must be reliable and sensitive to change.
