VANCOUVER ISLAND FIELD TESTING FOR ATHLETES

Field tests will not offer the wealth of information that clinical tests deliver, but they are easy to administer, inexpensive (or free), practical, and can be performed more frequently. The purpose of a field test is two-fold: to accurately gauge progress of fitness, and to establish accurate training zones. It is important to note that some protocols are used to predict clinical values. These are just that - predictions or estimates, not actual clinical results – and should be taken at face value. The great thing about field tests is that you are using actual performance to predict peak performance, and if executed correctly, field tests can give very relevant and useful information to the athlete. Formula-based training zones (ex. 220-age) can be highly inaccurate and should not be used for athletic training. Field testing generally uses a percentage of the tested value, not an age based formula, to created heart rate training zones. Training zones are moving targets that can fluctuate throughout the season as well as year to year as the athlete ages or becomes more fit. Many good field testing methods are non sport specific so cyclists can get much of the information they seek without necessarily having to have a stationary bike set-up.

Pacific SPORT is holding two of these valuable training sessions this spring. The first is at Shawnigan Lake Community Centre on April 2nd. from 5.30pm to 7.00pm. The second is at Oliver Woods Community Centre in Nanaimo on April 3rd. from 8pm to 9.30pm.   Aspects to be tested include: speed-strength, speed-endurance, aerobic stamina, strength endurance, flexibility, agility,  balance, and coordination.   The cost is $10.00 for non Pacific Sport athletes and free for Pacific Sport athletes.

For more information on these sessions and other Pacific Sport programmes go here.

Register today at 250-740-6572 or aguzak@pacificsport.com