Cricket
Fitness Testing
Introduction
Cricket is a sport in which fitness is traditionally not thought of as very important. However, the success of the world beating Australian team has been attributed to their professionalism, and in part to the way they address their fitness. Depending on the role of the player in the team, the importance of fitness will vary: the fitness requirements of a fast bowler will be greater than that of an opening batsman.
Fitness Tests for Cricket
Fitness plays a small though significant part in the success of a cricketer. There are several components of fitness that are important for success for all players.
Fitness Component |
example tests |
comments |
Aerobic Fitness |
The aerobic test performed may depend on the starting fitness level of the players. A submaximal test of aerobic fitness may be suitable, such as a cycle test (Astrand test, Trilevel, PWC170), or the Cooper 12 minute run. For players used to some conditioning exercise, the maximum effort shuttle run (beep) test would be more appropriate. You can find information on many aerobic tests from here. |
This is an important component of fitness for cricket, so that players can reduce the effect of fatigue during long periods of play. Fitter players will cope with the heat stress of playing all day in the sun. |
Flexibility |
The sit and reach test can be done for lower back and hamstring flexibility. Other flexibility tests should also be modified for the sport. |
The flexibility tests should be specific to the actions of cricket. Being flexible enables greater range of movement in the execution of strokes, and may reduce injury in the long term. |
Strength and Power |
Maximal strength tests for specific exercises should be conducted. Abdominal muscle function should also be tested, for example using an abdominal strength or endurance test. A handgrip strength test is also suitable. |
Strength (and power tests) should also be done to determine initial levels and to monitor strength changes in conjunction with training programs. Core stability and abdominal function is important in the controlling of movement and execution of strokes. |
Speed and agility |
Sprint time over 20m, with a split time for the first 10m should be done. You may also want to do a cricket specific test, sprinting over the actual pitch distance carrying a bat, incorporating a turn. |
Running speed, acceleration, and agility are very important in cricket for moving between the wickets and in fielding. |
Body Fat |
Skinfold measures should be performed to determine body fat levels. |
Excess body fat would affect the cricketer's ability to move freely around the field, and also increase fatigue during training and game play. |
