Fitness Testing

Alternate Hand Wall Toss Test

purpose: to measure hand-eye coordination
equipment required: tennis ball or baseball, smooth and solid wall, marking tape, stopwatch (optional)
description / procedure: A mark is placed a certain distance from the wall (e.g. 2 meters, 3 feet). The person stands behind the line and facing the wall. The ball is thrown from one hand in an underarm action against the wall, and attempted to be caught with the opposite hand. The ball is then thrown back against the wall and caught with the initial hand. The test can continue for a nominated number of attempts or for a set time period (e.g. 30 seconds). By adding the constraint of a set time period, you also add the factor of working under pressure.

scoring: The table below lists general ratings for this test, using the score of the number of successful catches in a 30 second period.

variations / modifications: There are numerous variation that can be made to the procedures of this test depending on the desired outcomes: the size, weight and shape of the object, the distance from the wall, the number of attempts or time period can all be varied. The procedure should be recorded with the results and kept consistent for future testing of the same subjects.
advantages: minimal equipment and costs are involved in conducting this test, and it can be self-administered.
disadvantages: the ability to catch the ball can be affected by how hard and straight the ball is thrown to the wall. You may want to draw a target on the wall to help with throwing accuracy. The test results may be skewed if the subject 'flukes' a few catches, so repeating the test a few times may result in more accurate results.