Validity of a Repeated-Sprint Test for Football

Abstract

Three studies involving 108 football players were
\nconducted to examine the reliability of a repeated-
\nshuttle-sprint ability (RSSA) test and its
\nability to differentiate between players of various
\ncompetitive levels and playing positions. Study
\n1: Short-term reliability was determined in 22
\nprofessional players completing the RSSA test
\n(6 × 40-m sprints with 20 s of recovery between
\nsprints) on two separate occasions. Study 2:
\nLong-term reliability (seasonal changes) was examined
\nin 31 professional players completing the
\nRSSA test four times (during the preseason period,
\nat the start, middle and end of the competitive
\nseason). Study 3: 108 players were divided
\nand compared according to competitive level or
\nplaying position. Standard error of measurement
\nvalues expressed as coefficient of variation for
\nRSSA mean time and best time were 0.8 and
\n1.3% (short-term reliability) and 0.9 and 1.2%
\n(long-term reliability), respectively. The smallest
\nworthwhile changes were 0.5% for both mean
\nand best time. Professional players showed better
\nRSSA performance than amateur players, and
\ndefenders displayed the lowest RSSA performance.
\nIn conclusion, the RSSA test showed adequate
\nconstruct validity but only RSSA mean
\ntime showed sufficient reliability to detect large
\ntraining-induced changes but not small important
\ndifferences.