Contact Sports SPARQ
Do you have what it takes to be a boxer? The SPARQ is a rating system designed to measure sport-specific athleticism. The results from these tests are combined and weighted using a specific formula. This battery of tests was used to assess the boxers on the TV show 'The Contender', and are not routinely conducted.
- Quick-Strike — measures peak punch and striking output, using a 100-pound heavy bag while wearing gloves
- Punch Power — measures the peak punch power during six punches, using a 100-pound heavy bag while wearing gloves .
- Upper-Body Arm Crank — involves cranking an arm ergometer while standing, at maximum speed for two 15-second intervals against variable resistance. Peak and average upper body power is recorded.
- Agility Jump — involves measuring the number of two-footed hops back and forth over a 12-inch hurdle for 45 seconds. This test measures agility, leg power and endurance.
- Light Board — This test involves standing on a Bosu™ ball and facing a light board, which displays a target light that moves to different cells across the board. The athlete tries to press as many active lights as possible out of 90. This test measures reaction time, hand-eye quickness and coordination.
Related Pages
- fitness testing for boxing
- See some of these SPARQ tests in action
- punching speed test
- anthropometry and boxing
- Poll: Fitness components for boxing
- About the SPARQ Rating System
- Boxing was rated the most demanding sport.
Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.
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