NBA Reactive Shuttle Test
The Reactive Shuttle Test requires players to complete an agility circuit, first running to the right or left direction in response to a stimulus. This test is part of a fitness testing protocols for the NBA Combine, though no official test description has been released by the NBA. The details described below are derived from a few sources online, none of them official. The NFL and NHL combine includes a similar shuttle test but over a longer distance.
test purpose: this is a test of speed, body control and the ability to change direction (agility), as well as reaction time.
equipment required: stopwatch or timing gates, marked basketball court, 3 marker cones or marking tape, reactive system.
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, test conditions. Measure and mark out the test area. Perform an appropriate warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.
test setup: The marking of the standard NBA basketball court are used. The center of the key may need to be marked, and cones are also placed on the outside of the key. The key is 16 feet wide.
procedure: The player starts by straddling the middle line. When indicated by the measuring system, the player runs either to the right or left direction, and places his foot on or over the sideline of the key. He then runs 16 feet back to the opposite line, then finally turns and finishes by running back through the start/finish line.
scoring: The time to complete the test in seconds to the nearest two decimals is recorded. The score is the best time of three trials.
results: see some results from the NBA combine
target population: This test is part of the NBA testing combine, though it would be suitable for athletes involved in many team sports such as basketball, hockey, rugby, soccer.
comments: Turning technique and coordination is also a large factor in this test.
The Test in Action
- This test is part of a fitness testing protocol for the NBA Combine.
Similar Tests
- The zig-zag test
Related Pages
- Other agility tests
- NBA Combine Tests
- About Agility Testing
- About the sport of Basketball
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