Validation of a Repeated Sprint Test for Determination of Anaerobic Power In Recreational Athletes

Abstract

There is currently little agreement regarding the most appropriate assessment for anaerobic power. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to validate a repeated sprint test for determination of anaerobic power. METHODS: Twelve college age, recreational athletes (10 females, 2 males) (age 24.9±4.3yr; Wt 64.2±10.6kg) volunteered to participate in (S) a series of 10 successive 40 yard sprints that began from a common start point and were completed within five minutes; (W) a Wingate Anaerobic Power Test, and (J) the Sargeant Vertical Jump Test. Finger stick lactate samples were obtained 3 minutes post (W) and (S). Subjects were familiarized and tests were performed in random order with a minimum of 24 hours between tests. RESULTS: Significant(p<05) relationships between W(lactate) and S(lactate) r=.82;W(peak power) and S(peak power) r=.61; S(avg power) and W(peak power) r=.82; J(peak power) and S(peak power) r=.78; S(peak power) and W(total work) r=.87; W(avg power) and S(avg power) r=.83 were evidenced. CONCLUSION: This repeated 40 yd. sprint test appears to be a valid test of both peak and sustained anaerobic power and provides an alternative assessment specific to running athletes.