Fitness Testing
Fitness Testing > Tests > Speed & Power > Sprint or Speed > 50 Meters
50 Meter Dash
Sprint or speed tests can be performed over varying distances, depending on the factors being tested and the relevance to the sport. The 50 Meter Sprint is part of the International Physical Fitness Test, and their protocol is listed here.
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purpose: The aim of this test is to determine acceleration and speed.
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equipment required: measuring tape or marked track, stopwatch, cone markers, flat and clear surface of at least 70 meters.
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description / procedure: The test involves running a single maximum sprint over 50 meters, with the time recorded. A thorough warm up should be given, including some practice starts and accelerations. Start from a stationary standing position (hands cannot touch the ground), with one foot in front of the other. The front foot must be behind the starting line. Once the subject is ready and motionless, the starter gives the instructions "set" then "go.". The tester should provide hints for maximizing speed (such as keeping low, driving hard with the arms and legs) and the participant should be encouraged to not slow down before crossing the finish line.
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results: Two trials are allowed, and the best time is recorded to the nearest 2 decimal places. The timing starts from the first movement (if using a stopwatch) or when the timing system is triggered, and finishes when the chest crosses the finish line and/or the finishing timing gate is triggered.
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target population: soccer other sports in which speed over a similar distance is important.
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reliability: Reliability is greatly improved if timing gates are used. Also weather conditions and running surface can affect the results, and these conditions should be recorded with the results. If possible, set up the track with a crosswind to minimize the effect of wind.
- comments: the timer should stand back away from the running track so they can clearly see the first movement and also see the runner pass the finish line.
Related Pages
- general information about Sprint or Speed Testing
- videos of the 40 yard dash
- other anaerobic tests and about anaerobic testing
- Sprint Test Results
- World Records for Speed tests
