A framework for test measurement selection in athlete physical preparation

Abstract

Preparing athletes for competition requires the diagnosis and monitoring of relevant physical qualities (e.g., strength, power, speed, endurance characteristics). Decisions regarding test selection that attempt to measure these physical attributes are fundamental to the training process yet are complicated by the myriad of tests and measurements available. This article presents an evidenced based process to inform test measurement selection for the physical preparation of athletes. We describe a method for incorporating multiple layers of validity to link test measurement to competition outcome. This is followed by a framework by which to evaluate the suitability of test measurements based on contemporary validity theory that considers technical, decision-making, and organisational factors. Example applications of the framework are described to demonstrate its utility in different settings. The systems presented here will assist in distilling the range of measurements available into those most likely to have the greatest impact on competition performance.