Measuring Reaction Time & Strength
Physical Education: AQA GCSE, topic 3.2.7
Reaction Time Test - Ruler Drop Test
Equipment needed: a metre ruler.
Process
- One person holds the ruler at the zero point vertically (straight) above the performer's hand. The performer places their thumb and index finger of their dominant (leading) hand on each side of the ruler without touching it.
- Without any warning, the person holding the ruler should release it. The performer must react and catch the ruler as quickly as they can. The score is recorded in centimetres and scores can be compared against a general rating scale.
Which sports?
- This is an appropriate test for cricketers because they need to react quickly with their hands to an oncoming ball.
- This test is less appropriate for snowboarders because catching a ruler does not test their reaction time in the same way that snowboarding does.
Maximal Strength Test - one rep max Test
Equipment needed: appropriate resistance machine (bench press).
Process
- The performer must do one repetition at the heaviest weight possible. They must keep adding weight until they can no longer lift it. The last successful attempt is the one rep max. This is recorded in kilograms.
Which sports?
- This is an appropriate test for boxers because they exert (apply) a huge amount of effort in one punch.
- This test is less appropriate for middle distance runners because they never need to exert (apply) such a huge, single force.
Test yourself on Measuring Reaction Time & Strength
Which of the following pieces of equipment is needed to carry out a ruler drop test?
For which athlete would a ruler drop test be most appropriate?
Which unit is used to record results for the one rep max test?
For which of the following athletes would a one rep max test be most appropriate?