Why do we need to assess our fitness levels?

Allows you to identify our strengths & weakness

Provides objective, accurate and reliable information about the performer in relationTo the specific demands of the activity.

Identifies areas of individual strengths and weaknesses

Provides a clear focus for planning a programme to improve performance related fitness

Provides a baseline or starting point

Allows a process of monitoring and recording fitness development throughComparison of the results of subsequent tests.

The process of fitness assessment allows the individual to progress by maximising strengths and addressing weaknesses.

There are 2 main ways of assessing fitness.

1.Directly within the activity2. Outwith the activity (standardised fitness tests)

Whichever methods are used there are a few general principles which should be followed.

•What information is needed?•What methods will be used to collect data?•What will the data actually measure•How will the data be recorded?•How will the data be used

The following also needs to be considered when gathering data. For it to be useful it must be

•Accurate – a true reflection of the performers ability•Relevant – to the performer and to the activity•Valid – it actually measures what it sets out to•Reliable – the assessment can be repeated consistently (test re-test method)•Objective – it is n on biased.•Contributes to informed decision making & leads to action capable of improving performance •Enables comparision, by measuring initial baseline data with subsequent assessment

There are 2 types of data that can be collected. QUANTITATIVE which is data that can be specifically measured and QUALITATIVE which is data gathered from personal judgements.

Gathering data within the activity

This involves the fitness levels of the performer being assessed while they participate Within the activity. The methods used to carry out this data gathering have to take without influencing or intruding on the actual activity.

Can you think of any methods we have used that fits into this category?

•Gathering data within the activity provides a lot of general information.•This then leads to the identification of specific fitness weaknesses.•These can then be assessed in greater depth out with the activity.

Throughout the course we will use a range of data gathering methods, such as;

•Thoughts & feelings•Coach’s opinions•Video & Dartfish analysis•Observation schedule•Mapping sheet•Heart rate monitor.

These methods all have their own strengths and weaknesses. To ensure that you understand these please Read page 9 of your workbook.

Gathering data out with the activity

This process is completed by using standardised fitness tests. The data gathered here is called specific of focussed data.

Advantages of using Standardised Fitness Tests

•A wide range of tests are available•Tests provide established norms/ratings•Individual and group comparisons can be made•Enables specific aspects of fitness to be investigated•Provides a clear focus for the performer which is often motivational•Provides tools with set guidelines to measure and monitor personal fitness•Excellent for setting personal fitness targets.

In order for these tests to valid and reliable it is essential that the tests are carried out correctly. To ensure that you follow understand how each test is set up and carried out please read pages 15-18 of your work book