With seasons underway, we’re already planning our next point of testing for many athletes. We thought we’d take a moment to break down what testing includes and how we find value in the data. After all, testing takes valuable time and resources, we can’t afford to waste either of them. By being selective of what we test and having a systematic approach to implement the information, we can better cater training to our athletes at varying points of the year.
What We Test and Why It Matters
So what is it we test? Well, some standards include, height, weight, wingspan and other basic measurements. This can give us relative data as we compare to athletes of various body types. Other tests include jumps, force output, sprints, throws and a battery of other skill based metrics. By collecting a wide range of data across various training qualities and planes of movement, we’re better able to create a more holistic athlete profile.
Now, not all these tests may be applicable to you. In fact, some may not even be relevant. However, the outputs on these tests can help create a profile of possible strengths and weaknesses as it relates to certain training qualities (speed, power, strength, etc.) that in fact DO matter to you. We can also gauge ranges of motion across different joints that can help guide exercise selections to either implement or remove constraints. Essentially, by gathering this data, we can better pinpoint relative weak links in your own individual chain. We can better plan where YOU should focus your efforts to maximize your training.
Using Testing Data to Shape Training Programs
In terms of HOW we use the information, well, now that’s the deep stuff. Instead of diving down the extremely deep rabbit hole of testing metrics and analyses, we’ve made a summary video that gives some perspective on how we use the data.
As you can see, there is some pretty in depth stuff. But, by correlating the info to relevant norms and sport standards, we can better bucket athletes with specific training focuses during specific points of the year. By retesting every 8-12 weeks, we’re able to keep our finger on the pulse and use continued data collection to either reaffirm the plan or pick up on trends that may have us change course. Whatever appears to be in the athlete’s (or team’s) best interest.
After all, if you aren’t assessing, you’re just guessing.
