The Multistage Hurdle Test assesses agility and lower body strength endurance, by counting the number of jumps over a hurdle in two 20-second periods and calculates a fatigue index.
test purpose: The aim of the test is to measure foot quickness, body control, and ‘repeated effort’ ability.
equipment required: a stopwatch, SPARQ Soft Endurance Hurdle (12" high) or equivalent, 2 x timing mats (such as the JustJump) (optional).
pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender and test conditions. Perform a standardized warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.
procedure: Place the timing mats on either side of the hurdle. If no timing mats are available, you can manually count the number of jumps. The athlete stands comfortably on one side with both feet flat on the ground, perpendicular to the hurdle. The timing starts from the first movement. The athlete jumps off both feet and lands on both feet on the other side of the hurdle, then back again. The test continues for 20 seconds, with the total number of jumps counted. After a 20 second rest interval, the test is repeated. (see multistage hurdle jump video example)
scoring: The total number of completed jumps in the time period (40 seconds) is recorded, and also recovery (fatigue) index is calculated as the number of 2nd-stage jumps as a percentage of 1st stage jumps.
The Test in Action
- This test is part of the SPARQ testing protocols for basketball.
- See the video example of this test
Similar Tests
- 30-seconds Endurance Jump — jump across a hurdle as many times as possible in 30 seconds.
- Hurdle agility jump — 45 seconds of two-legged jumping over a hurdle.
- Hexagonal Obstacle Test — involves jumping over obstacles placed a hexagon shape, as fast as possible.
Related Pages
- Other muscle strength endurance fitness tests
- About the SPARQ rating systemand the SPARQ testing protocols for basketball