Methods for the physical factor (fitness)
Below are some methods used to collect data on physical factors.
| Fitness | Skills | Tactics |
| standardised fitness tests | general observation schedule | match analysis |
| time related observation schedule | focused observation schedule | digital analysis |
| heart rate monitor | scatter diagram | knowledge of results |
| Fitness | standardised fitness tests |
|---|---|
| Skills | general observation schedule |
| Tactics | match analysis |
| Fitness | time related observation schedule |
|---|---|
| Skills | focused observation schedule |
| Tactics | digital analysis |
| Fitness | heart rate monitor |
|---|---|
| Skills | scatter diagram |
| Tactics | knowledge of results |
Standardised fitness tests
Standardised fitness tests are a range of recognised tests used to measure different fitness components.
Each test is applicable to one aspect of fitness, for example, the beep testA method of collecting data on physical fitness. It involves continuous running between two marker 20 metres apart in time to recorded beeps. The speed at the start is quite slow but it increases as time goes on. gathers data on your CRECardio-respiratory endurance. This is a measure of how well your heart, lungs, and muscles work together to keep your body active over an extended period of time. levels. Each test has a set of protocols that should be followed in line with evidence from research.
The beep test involves:
- Setting up two cones 20m apart on a flat and dry surface.
- Starting behind the start line at cone one and jogging to the other cone on the beep. Your aim is to reach this cone before the next beep.
- Turning and joggging back to cone one before the following beep.
- This process continues until you miss two beeps in a row. At this point, you are out and collect your score from your teacher.
Standardised fitness tests produce quantitativeResults that can be expressed using numerical values. data as there is no opinion involved. The reliability of the results depends on how motivated you are to complete the tests to the best of your ability.
Below are benefits and limitations of the beep test.
| Benefits | Limitations |
| Appropriate method as research proves it collects data on CRE (so long as protocols are followed). | Can be boring and lead to you dropping out when others drop out. |
| Produces quantitative data which increase the likelihood of accurate and reliable results (so long as highly motivated). | Most beep tests only provide you with the level you are starting so you might not notice the number of beeps you completed during that level, affecting the accuracy of results. |
| Easy to identify level of CRE by comparing to NORMS. |
| Benefits | Appropriate method as research proves it collects data on CRE (so long as protocols are followed). |
|---|---|
| Limitations | Can be boring and lead to you dropping out when others drop out. |
| Benefits | Produces quantitative data which increase the likelihood of accurate and reliable results (so long as highly motivated). |
|---|---|
| Limitations | Most beep tests only provide you with the level you are starting so you might not notice the number of beeps you completed during that level, affecting the accuracy of results. |
| Benefits | Easy to identify level of CRE by comparing to NORMS. |
|---|---|
| Limitations |
Let's now deconstruct this method and break it down into smaller parts. In doing this, we are identifying an important part in the process then showing why this part is important in making the method work.
- Complete the test on a flat and dry surface so you do not slip when turning. This minimises the risk of dropping out for anything other than your CRE levels declining.
- Set yourself a goal when carrying out the test to motivate you to take it seriously. This will limit the chances of you dropping out due to boredom.
- Have at least two people measuring out the 20m for the beep test (or when setting up other tests), to ensure measurements are accurate and correctly follow protocols.