Ten Stride Test

Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made but in the analysis we need to bear in mind the factors that may influence the results.

Objective

The objective of this test is to monitor the athlete's ability to efficiently accelerate from a standing start.

Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

  • 400 metre track - with a 20 metre marked section on the straight
  • 30 metre tape measure
  • Stop watch
  • An assistant

How to conduct the test

The test comprises of 6 x 20 metre runs from a standing start and with a full recovery between each run. The assistant should record the:

  • time to complete 10 strides - start the watch on the first foot strike
  • the distance covered by the 10 strides

Analysis

Analysis of the result is by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement.

10 Stride Results Calculator

Enter the Time, Distance and then select the "Calculate" button for an analysis of the results.

Time - seconds Distance - metres
     
Metres / second (Target is > 7.5 metres / second)
Average stride length (Target is > 1.5 metres)
Strides / second (Target is > 4.5 stride / second)

Target Group

This test is suitable for sprinters but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

Reliability

Reliability would depend upon how strict the test is conducted and the athlete's level of motivation to perform the test.

Validity

There are no published tables to relate results to potential performance in competition.

Free Calculator

  • 10 Stride Calculator - a free Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that you can download and use on your computer.

Additional Information

Associated Pages

The following Sports Coach pages should be read in conjunction with this page:

Associated Web Sites

The following web sites contain more information related to this topic:

Associated Books

The following books provide more information related to this topic:

  • Advanced Studies in Physical Education and Sport, P Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 4482345
  • Physical Education and the Study of Sport, B. Davis et al., ISBN 0 7234 31752
  • Essentials of Exercise Physiology, W.D. McArdle et al., ISBN 0 683 30507 7
  • Physical Education and Sport Studies, D. Roscoe et al., ISBN 1 901424 20 0
  • The World of Sport Examined, P. Beashel et al., ISBN 0 17 438719 9
  • Advanced PE for Edexcel, F. Galligan et al., ISBN 0 435 50643 9
  • Examining Physical Education, K. Bizley, ISBN 0 435 50660 9
  • Sport and PE, K Wesson et al., ISBN 0 340 683821
  • PE for you, J. Honeybourne, ISBN 0 7487 3277 2