Validity of selected aerobic capacity field-based test among rugby players

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the criterion validity of selected field-based test measuring aerobic capacity among rugby players. Aerobic capacity is an important fitness component needed by rugby players to sustain in a long duration match. Selected aerobic capacity field-based tests are Yo-yo Intermittent Endurance Test (YYIET) and 20m Multiple Shuttle Run Test. Laboratory test, Bruce Protocol running Test was used as a criterion test. Fifteen (n=15) male rugby players with height, weight and body fat percentage (BF) (mean±SD) 1.71±5.6cm, 79.5 ±10.9 kg and 23.8±10.1% respectively were selected to participate in this study. This study found that there is a significance difference for both tests (MST, p=.001, p<.05; YYIET, p=.002, p<.05) in estimating the maximum oxygen consumption. Both test showed a strong relationship with criterion test (MST, r=.72, p=.004, p<.05; YYIET, r=.81, p=.001, p<.05). Result shows that there is significant difference for both tests in estimating the maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) and both tests have a high correlation compared to criterion test. Concisely, both tests are valid methods to measure the aerobic capacity among rugby players.