AFL Agility Run
A specific slalom-type agility test has been developed for testing Australian Football players. The test involves running in and out and around obstacles over roughly 40 meters in total.
purpose: this is a test of overall agility, including speed, quickness, flexibility, change of direction and body control.
equipment required: timing gates, measuring tape, masking tape, a flat non-slip surface, 5 obstacles made of PVC piping (10-12 cm diameter) with a 25cm base and approximately 1.1m high. The obstacles are weighted internally at the bottom of the piping to increase stability.
pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender, test conditions. Measure and mark out the course. Ensure that the participants are adequately warmed-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.
test layout: A zig-zag course is set up in and around five obstacles, as illustrated in the diagram. A set of electronic timing gates are placed at the start and finish. Masking tape should be placed on the floor at two corners of the obstacle so it can be accurately re-positioned if it is knocked over.
procedure: After a short warm-up, the players should have a practice trial at 50% effort to familiarize themselves with the course. When ready, they start from a stationary, upright position with one foot on the starting line, aligned with first timing gate. The player then weaves in and out of the obstacles and should avoid touching or moving the obstacles in any way. If this occurs the test is stopped and restarted. Two trials are allowed, with 2-3 minutes recovery between trials.
scoring: The time to complete the test in seconds (to two decimal places) is recorded. The score is the best time of two trials.
target population: This test used to be part part of the AFL draft combine, though it would also be suitable for athletes involved in many team sports where agility is important such as other football codes, basketball, hockey, and rugby.
The Test in Action
- This test is part of the Australian Rules Football (AFL) combine.
Similar Tests
- Lane Agility Drill (basketball)
- Zig-Zag Test
- Illinois Agility Test
- Balsom Agility Run (soccer)
Related Pages
- Other agility tests
- Fitness testing at the AFL draft camp.
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