Real-time intersession and interrater reliability of the functional movement screen

The purpose of this study was to examine the real-time intersession and interrater reliability of the functional movement screen (FMS). The overall study consisted of 19 volunteer civilians (12 male, 7 female). The intersession reliability consisted of 12 men and 7 women, whereas 10 men and 6 women participated in the interrater reliability test session. Two raters (A and B) were involved in the interrater reliability aspect of this study. The FMS includes 7 tests: deep squat (DS), hurdle step (HS), in-line lunge (IL), shoulder mobility (SM), active straight leg raise (ASLR), trunk stability push-up (TSPU), and rotary stability (RS). Researchers analyzed the data via intraclass correlation (ICC). To determine the reliability of the intersession scoring of the FMS and the intrasession interrater scoring of the FMS a 2-way mixed effects model intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC(3,1)) was used for the continuous data, whereas a weighted Cohen's kappa (κ) was used for the categorical data. The dependent variables were FMS total score (0-21 scale) and associated tests were DS, HS, IL, SM, ASLR, TSPU, and RS. Intersession reliability (ICC, SEM) and κ were as follows: FMS total score (0.92, 0.51), DS (κ = 0.69), HS (κ = 0.16), IL (κ = 0.69), SM (κ = 0.84), ASLR (κ = 0.69), TSPU (κ = 0.77), and RS (no covariance). Interrater reliability (ICC, SEM) and κ were as follows: FMS total score (0.98, 0.25), DS (κ = 1.0), HS (κ = 0.33), IL (κ = 0.88), SM (κ = 0.90), ASLR (κ = 0.88), TSPU (κ = 0.75), and RS (no covariance). The FMS total scores displayed high intersession and interrater reliabilities. Finally, with the exception of HS, all tasks displayed moderate to high intersession reliability and good to high interrater reliability.     

The validity and reliability of the 1RM bench press using chain-loaded resistance

The purposes of this study were to determine the validity and test-retest reliability of the 1 repetition maximum (1RM) chain-loaded, free-weight bench press (CBP) and to examine possible learning effects that may occur between the test-retest measurements. Nine resistance-trained men (20.58 +/- 1.31 years, 188.24 +/- 9.29 cm, 92.07 +/- 16.94 kg) and seven resistance-trained women (20.42 +/- 0.98 years, 175.61 +/- 9.32 cm, 73.61 +/- 10.80 kg) participating in Division II college basketball completed this study. Two familiarization sessions took place using light to moderate loads to learn proper technique. The subjects completed a 1RM test on the traditional plate-loaded bench press 4 days before completion of the CBP 1RM, which was followed by 4 days of rest before completing the retest. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and the percent coefficients of variation (CV) were used to determine relative and absolute test-retest reliability. Concurrent validity was determined from the Pearson correlation coefficients between the CBP and the plate-loaded bench press. Test-retest differences were analyzed with the paired t-test. ICC and CV for the men (r = 0.99, 1.4%) and women (r = 0.93, 3.5%), respectively indicate that highly reproducible 1RM scores can be found with the CBP. High validity was also found with high correlations between the CBP and plate-loaded bench press for the men (r = 0.95) and women (r = 0.80). A statistically significant (p = 0.04) but clinically small (2.57 kg) shift in the mean occurred between the CBP test and retest for the men, whereas no change occurred for the women. The data indicate that valid and reliable 1RM scores can be found after two familiarization sessions in men and women athletes who have previous resistance training experience.     

Evaluation of a composite test of kicking performance

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and sensitivity of variables for the direct assessment of kicking performance in young soccer players. One hundred and six elite young soccer players were divided into 4 age groups (12-15 years). Absolute error (AE), variable error (VE), and constant error (CE) were evaluated as the variables of kicking accuracy, whereas the kicking velocity variables involved the maximum ball velocity (BVmax) and the ball velocity during accurate kicks (BVacc). Results suggested low-to-moderate reliability of the kicking accuracy (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.00-0.67) and high reliability of the kicking velocity variables (ICC = 0.87-0.94). Regarding the sensitivity, most of the variables detected the differences both between the dominant and nondominant legs and among the age groups. Because the evaluated variables should have a property of face validity, the findings obtained generally suggest that AE (and perhaps VE, as the measures of kicking accuracy) and both BVmax and BVacc (as the measures of kicking velocity) could be used within a routine composite test of kicking performance in young elite soccer players. Further development of the evaluated composite test of kicking performance could be based on the involvement of other kicking techniques and on testing the athletes of different ages, levels of skill, or sport specialization.     

Physiological correlates of multiple-sprint ability and performance in international-standard squash players

From measures on a battery of fitness tests in elite-standard squash players on different tiers of a national performance program, we examined the relationships among test scores and player rank, and fitness factors important for squash-specific multiple-sprint ability. Thirty-one (20 men, 11 women) squash players from the England Squash performance program participated: n = 12 senior; n = 7 transition; n = 12 talented athlete scholarship scheme (TASS) players. In 1 test session and in a fixed order, the players completed a battery of tests to assess countermovement jump height, reactive strength, change-of-direction speed, and multiple-sprint ability on squash-specific tests and endurance fitness. Two-way analysis of variance compared senior, transition, and TASS players by sex on all measures except jump height where only senior and transition players were compared. Effect size (ES) was calculated for all comparisons. Pearson's correlation examined relationships among test scores and multiple-sprint ability. Spearman's ρ investigated relationships among test scores and players' rank in men and women separately. Regardless of sex, seniors outperformed TASS players on all except the endurance test (p < 0.05, ES at least 1.1). Seniors had better multiple-sprint ability than did transition players (p < 0.01, ES = 1.2). Transition outperformed TASS players on the reactive-strength test (p < 0.05, ES = 1.0). Men outperformed women in all tests at all performance program tiers (p < 0.05, ES at least 0.5). In men, rank was related to multiple-sprint ability, fastest-multiple-sprint-test repetition, and change-of-direction speed (ρ = 0.78, 0.86, 0.59, respectively). In women, rank was related to fastest multiple-sprint-test repetition (ρ = 0.65). In men and women, multiple-sprint ability was related to change-of-direction speed (r = 0.9 and 0.84) and fastest-multiple-sprint-test repetition (r = 0.96 for both) and to reactive strength in men (r = -0.71). The results confirm that high-intensity variable-direction exercise capabilities are important for success in elite squash.     

Validity and reliability of agility tests in junior Australian football players

Young, W, Farrow, D, Pyne, D, McGregor, W, and Handke, T. Validity and reliability of agility tests in junior Australian football players. J Strength Cond Res 25(12): 3399-3403, 2011-The importance of sport-specific stimuli in reactive agility tests (RATs) compared to other agility tests is not known. The purpose of this research was to determine the validity and reliability of agility tests. Fifty junior Australian football players aged 15-17 years, members of either an elite junior squad (n = 35) or a secondary school team (n = 15), were assessed on a new RAT that involved a change of direction sprint in response to the movements of an attacking player projected in life size on a screen. These players also underwent the planned Australian Football League agility test, and a subgroup (n = 13) underwent a test requiring a change of direction in response to a left or right arrow stimulus. The elite players were significantly better than the school group players on the RAT (2.81 ± 0.08 seconds, 3.07 ± 0.12 seconds; difference 8.5%) but not in the arrow stimulus test or planned agility test. The data were log transformed and the reliability of the new RAT estimated using typical error (TE) expressed as a coefficient of variation. The TE for the RAT was 2.7% (2.0-4.3, 90% confidence interval) or 0.07 seconds (0.5-1.0), with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.33. For the test using the arrow stimulus, the TE was 3.4% (2.4-6.2), 0.09 (0.06-0.15) seconds, and ICC was 0.10. The sport-specific stimulus provided by the new RAT is a crucial component of an agility test; however, adoption of the new RAT for routine testing is likely to require more accessible equipment and several familiarization trials to improve its reliability.     

Gender bias in jumping kinetics in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I basketball players

The purposes of this study are to examine gender differences in the contribution of the arm swing to jump height in men and women basketball players and to examine the role of upper-body strength in the contribution of arm swing to jump height. National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I basketball players (men n = 13, women n = 12) performed 4 jumping movements: squat jumps with hands on hips (SNA) and with arm swings (SA) and countermovement jumps with hands on hips and with arm swings (CMA). Differences were found between the jump heights of men and women. Use of the arms increased the jump height of men more than women. Compared with the SNA, the SA allowed an increase of 7 cm (23%) for men and 4 cm (17%) for women. The CMA allowed for an increase of 10 cm (30%) for men and 6 cm (24%) for women. General upper-body strength measures did not correlate strongly with the effect of arms on jumping, but peak power did. As in previous studies, peak power had a high correlation with jumping performance. These results show that the arm swing contributes significantly to jump performance in both men and women basketball players and that strength training for jumping should focus on power production and lifting exercises that are jump specific.     

NFL-225 Test to Predict 1RM Bench Press in NCAA Division I Football Players

ABSTRACT: Mann, JB, Stoner, JD, and Mayhew, JL. NFL-225 test to predict 1RM bench press in NCAA Division I football players. J Strength Cond Res 26(10): 2623-2631, 2012-The National Football League (NFL)-225 test has gained popularity for assessing muscular performance among college football programs. Although the test is a measure of absolute muscular endurance, it was reputed to be highly correlated with maximum muscular strength. The purposes of this study were to assess the predictive potential of the NFL-225 test for estimating 1 repetition maximum (1RM) bench press performance in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I college football players and to evaluate the accuracy of previous NFL-225 prediction equations. Players (n = 289) in a successful Division I program were assessed over a period of 5 years for 1RM bench press and repetitions completed with 102.3 kg (225 lb). Test sessions occurred within 1 week of each other during the off-season training period. In a validation group (n = 202), repetitions were significantly correlated with 1RM (r = 0.95), producing a prediction equation (1RM [kg] = 103.5 + 3.08 Reps) with a standard error of estimate = 6.4 kg (coefficient of variation = 4.3%). In a randomly selected cross-validation group (n = 87), the new equation nonsignificantly underpredicted by 0.9 ± 7.2 kg produced a high correlation with actual 1RM (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.967), had a limit of agreement of -15.0 to 13.2 kg, and predicted 69% of the group within ±4.5 kg of their actual 1RM. The best previous equation was that of Slovak et al., which was nonsignificantly underpredicted by -0.5 ± 6.7 kg, produced a high correlation with actual 1RM (ICC = 0.975), and predicted 68% of the group within ±4.5 kg of their actual 1RM. The new NFL-225 test seems to be a reasonable predictor of 1RM bench press in Division I players but should be further assessed on players from other high-level programs.     

Pragmatic validity of the combined model of expert system for assessment and analysis of the actual quality overall structure of basketball players

The authors presumed that it was possible to replace certain criteria of the expert system aimed at evaluating actual quality of basketball players, proposed by Trnini? et al., with the corresponding indicators of situation-related efficiency (official statistics of the game). Hence, the aim of this study is to verify the potential of establishing such a combined model of expert system that would consist of both the evaluation criteria and certain number of objectively measurable aspects of actual quality (player's partial performance or playing efficiency) and to determine its pragmatic validity. To achieve the aim the sample comprised of 60 basketball players that were competing in the Croatian First Division League in the 1998/99 season was tested. The sample and their quality of play was described by the two different types of data: 1) the 13 situation-related efficiency data (FIBA statistics of the game) utilized to objectively assess performance or playing effectiveness of players, collected at 132 games played by 12 teams, and 2) the evaluation data, subjectively assessing actual quality of players, i.e. their perceived overall performance, collected at the end of the season from the 10 basketball trainers. On the basis of relatively high correlations within the 7 pairs of mutually equivalent variables (from 0.63 to 0.84) and the extremely high correlation (0.97) obtained between the perceived overall performance (actual quality), subjectively assessed with respect to the 19 criteria of the original expert evaluation system, and the overall performance (actual quality) assessed by the combined model (where the 8 evaluation criteria had been replaced by the 7 corresponding indicators ofplaying efficiency), it is feasible to consider the combined model of expert system as an acceptable tool for more objective and economical assessment of actual quality of basketball players.     

Intra- and interrater reliability of the establishment of one repetition maximum on squat and seated knee extension

The purpose of the present study was to develop a systematic procedure for the establishment of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) in order to describe an easily accessible test procedure that is applicable for physical therapists and athletic trainers who manage strength training for healthy individuals and patients. Another purpose was to investigate the intra- and interrater reliability of 1RM of squat on 1 leg and seated knee extension on 1 leg. Estimates of leg strength and ratings of perceived exertion formed the basis of the amount of load selected. The reliability of the procedure was assessed by a test-retest design. One RM was established for 16 and 27 healthy individuals, for squat and knee extension, respectively. The intrarater reliability of 1RM of squat on 1 leg was questionable (intraclass correlation [ICC] 0.64, measurement error 13.1 kg). The interrater reliability of 1RM of squat on 1 leg was clinically acceptable (ICC 0.94, measurement error 5.2 kg). The intrarater and interrater reliability of 1RM of seated knee extension on 1 leg was clinically acceptable (ICC 0.90, measurement error 5.1 kg and ICC 0.96, measurement error 3.2 kg, respectively). In conclusion, both exercises can be used to determine the load in exercise programs. In addition, seated knee extension may be used to evaluate strength. In contrast, squat on 1 leg is more uncertain to use at assessments between different days, which may be due to the complexity of this exercise. The test, performed in the described manner, is suitable for physical therapists, athletic trainers, and strength and conditioning coaches in clinical practice working with strength training and rehabilitation.     

Sprint,agility, strength and endurance capacity in wheelchair basketball players

The aims of the present study were, firstly, to determine the reliability and reproducibility of an agility T-test and Yo-Yo 10 m recovery test; and secondly, to analyse the physical characteristics measured by sprint, agility, strength and endurance field tests in wheelchair basketball (WB) players. 16 WB players (33.06 ± 7.36 years, 71.89 ± 21.71 kg and sitting body height 86.07 ± 6.82 cm) belonging to the national WB league participated in this study. Wheelchair sprint (5 and 20 m without ball, and 5 and 20 m with ball) agility (T-test and pick-up test) strength (handgrip and maximal pass) and endurance (Yo-Yo 10 m recovery test) were performed. T-test and Yo-Yo 10 m recovery test showed good reproducibility values (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC = 0.74-0.94). The WB players’ results in 5 and 20 m sprints without a ball were 1.87 ± 0.21 s and 5.70 ± 0.43 s and with a ball 2.10 ± 0.30 s and 6.59 ± 0.61 s, being better than those reported in the literature. Regarding the pick-up test results (16.05 ± 0.52 s) and maximal pass (8.39 ± 1.77 m), players showed worse values than those obtained in elite players. The main contribution of the present study is the characterization of the physical performance profile of WB players using a field test battery. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the agility T-test and the aerobic Yo-Yo 10 m recovery test are reliable; consequently they may be appropriate instruments for measuring physical fitness in WB.     

Test-retest reliability and construct validity of the ENERGY-parent questionnaire on parenting practices, energy balance-related behaviours and their potential behavioural determinants: the ENERGY-project

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: Insight in parental energy balance-related behaviours, their determinants and parenting practices are important to inform childhood obesity prevention. Therefore, reliable and valid tools to measure these variables in large-scale population research are needed. The objective of the current study was to examine the test-retest reliability and construct validity of the parent questionnaire used in the ENERGY-project, assessing parental energy balance-related behaviours, their determinants, and parenting practices among parents of 10-12 year old children. FINDINGS: We collected data among parents (n = 316 in the test-retest reliability study; n = 109 in the construct validity study) of 10-12 year-old children in six European countries, i.e. Belgium, Greece, Hungary, the Netherlands, Norway, and Spain. Test-retest reliability was assessed using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and percentage agreement comparing scores from two measurements, administered one week apart. To assess construct validity, the agreement between questionnaire responses and a subsequent interview was assessed using ICC and percentage agreement. All but one item showed good to excellent test-retest reliability as indicated by ICCs > .60 or percentage agreement [greater than or equal to] 75%. Construct validity appeared to be good to excellent for 92 out of 121 items, as indicated by ICCs > .60 or percentage agreement [greater than or equal to] 75%. From the other 29 items, construct validity was moderate for 24 and poor for 5 items. CONCLUSIONS: The reliability and construct validity of the items of the ENERGY-parent questionnaire on multiple energy balance-related behaviours, their potential determinants, and parenting practices appears to be good. Based on the results of the validity study, we strongly recommend adapting parts of the ENERGY-parent questionnaire if used in future research.     

Basketball ability testing and category for players with mental retardation: 8-month training effect

Although sport for athletes with mental retardation (MR) is achieving an important role, the literature concerning basketball tests and training is still poor. The aims of this study were to verify whether the basketball test battery could be an appropriate modality to classify the players in the Promotion (Pro) category, to assess basketball abilities before (PRE) and after (POST) an 8-month training in players with MR in relation to Competitive (Comp) and Pro categories, to analyze the variation of specific basketball abilities based on subjects' MR diagnosis. Forty-one male basketball players with MR (17 Comp and 24 Pro; age range 18-45 years; MR: 15% mild, 54% moderate, 29% severe, and 2% profound) were assessed PRE and POST training through the basketball test battery, which assessed 4 ability levels of increasing difficulty (from I to IV), each one characterized by the analysis of fundamental areas (ball handling, reception, passing, and shooting). Level I was significantly changed after the intervention period regardless of the Category, whereas shooting was affected by the interaction between Category and Intervention. The results showed significant differences between categories in the scores of individual global, level I, level II, level III, and in all fundamental areas. Individual global score in both categories significantly increased. The players of Comp significantly improved in level III, in ball handling, reception, passing, and shooting scores. The players of Pro improved significantly in level II, in ball handling, reception, and passing scores. Individual global, ability levels I-III, and fundamental area scores were negatively correlated to the MR level indicating that the players with a lower MR obtained higher ability scores. In conclusion, it was found that the basketball test battery could be useful for improving and monitoring training in both Comp and Pro players.     

The reliability and reproducibility of foot type measurements using a mirrored foot photo box and digital photography compared to caliper measurements

The height of the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) is thought to be a predisposing factor to various lower extremity injuries. Discrepancy exists as to whether MLA height plays a role in injury prevention. The purpose of this study was to determine the intertester and intratester reliability, and the validity of the mirrored foot photo box (MFPB) and caliper measurements to radiographic measurements. METHODS: Thirty subjects with equal numbers of men and women were recruited. Both feet were tested (n=60) in a 90% weight bearing stance. A set of anatomic landmarks were palpated, marked, and measured using a caliper, MFPB, and radiographs. The protocol was completed by two testers on 2 days approximately 1 week apart. Intertester and intratester reliability were determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)(2,k) and the ICC(2,1), respectively. Validity of both measurement techniques to radiographic measurements was determined using the ICC(2,k). RESULTS: The intertester reliability ranged from 0.991 to 0.577, while the intratester reliability ranged from 0.994 to 0.527, with first metatarsal angle being the only variable with poor reliability. Most variables demonstrated acceptable validity between the MFPB and the caliper measurements, and acceptable validity between the MFPB and calipers compared to radiographic measurements. The MFPB took 51.3+/-19.6s per foot while the caliper measurements averaged 227.4+/-68.9s to complete the measurements. DISCUSSION: The MFPB is as reliable as the caliper measurements, and offers better intertester reliability. Both the caliper and MFPB measurements demonstrated acceptable validity to radiographic measurements and testing time was reduced when using the MFPB compared to calipers.     

Technical report: Reliability and validity of the iSAM 9000 isokinetic dynamometer

This study assessed the mechanical reliability and validity of the INRTEK iSAM 9000 isokinetic dynamometer, and compared the obtained torque values of the prototype device with those from a traditional device. Sixty volunteers (40 men and 20 women) were tested at 60 degrees per second for shoulder, knee, and trunk flexion, and extension on both the Cybex 6000 and a new isokinetic dynamometer (iSAM 9000). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and standard errors of measurement (SEM) revealed a high level of reproducibility and precision in the device's torque measurements (ICC range = 0.94-0.98; SEM range = 5.2-29.7). Pearson r values revealed very high relationships between the two instruments (set 1: r = 0.84-0.93; set 2: r = 0.87-0.93; P < 0.05). Significantly higher peak torque for both sets of left and right knee flexion and extension, right shoulder extension and trunk extension was found for the iSAM 9000 compared to the Cybex 6000 (P < 0.05). The strong ICCs and small SEMs support the device's mechanical reliability and validity. The high correlation coefficients between the prototype dynamometer and the Cybex 6000 support the new device's validity in the measurement of isokinetic torque. The findings of this study will be used to refine the next generation of the INRTEK isokinetic device with respect to test protocols and the reliability of measuring human muscle performance.     

Reliability of techniques to assess human neuromuscular function in vivo.

The purpose of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the reliability of a large number of commonly utilized experimental tests of in vivo human neuromuscular function separated by 4-weeks. Numerous electrophysiological parameters (i.e., voluntary and evoked electromyogram [EMG] signals), contractile properties (i.e., evoked forces and rates of force development and relaxation), muscle morphology (i.e., MRI-derived cross-sectional area [CSA]) and performance tasks (i.e., steadiness and time to task failure) were assessed from the plantarflexor muscle group in 17 subjects before and following 4-weeks where they maintained their normal lifestyle. The reliability of the measured variables had wide-ranging levels of consistency, with coefficient of variations (CV) ranging from approximately 2% to 20%, and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) between 0.53 and 0.99. Overall, we observed moderate to high-levels of reliability in the vast majority of the variables we assessed (24 out of the 29 had ICC>0.70 and CV<15%). The variables demonstrating the highest reliability were: CSA (ICC=0.93-0.98), strength (ICC=0.97), an index of nerve conduction velocity (ICC=0.95), and H-reflex amplitude (ICC=0.93). Conversely, the variables demonstrating the lowest reliability were: the amplitude of voluntary EMG signal (ICC=0.53-0.88), and the time to task failure of a sustained submaximal contraction (ICC=0.64). Additionally, relatively little systematic bias (calculated through the limits of agreement) was observed in these measures over the repeat sessions. In conclusion, while the reliability differed between the various measures, in general it was rather high even when the testing sessions are separated by a relatively long duration of time.     

Reliability of concentric and eccentric strength of hip abductor and adductor muscles in young soccer players

The concentric and eccentric strength profile and muscular balance of the hip joint are important parameters for success in soccer. This study evaluated the reliability for the assessment of hip abduction and adduction isokinetic strength over a range of angular velocities (30 and 90°/s) and types of muscular actions (concentric and eccentric) in young soccer players. The reliability for the assessment of reciprocal (conventional and functional) and bilateral torque ratios was also examined. Fifteen male soccer players (15±1 years) performed two sessions, separated by three days. The testing protocol consisted of five maximal concentric and eccentric hip abductions and adductions of both legs at angular velocities of 30°/s and 90°/s. The peak torque was evaluated in young soccer players using an isokinetic dynamometer (Cybex Norm), and the reciprocal strength ratios (conventional and functional) and bilateral ratios (non-preferred to preferred leg ratios) were calculated. The test-retest reliability for the assessment of peak torque (ICC = 0.71-0.92) and of reciprocal muscle group ratios (ICC = 0.44-0.87) was found to be moderate to high. Bilateral torque ratios exhibited low to moderate reliability (ICC = 0.11-0.64). In conclusion, isokinetic strength of hip abductor and adductor muscles and the conventional and functional strength ratios can be reliably assessed in young soccer players, especially at low angular velocities. The assessment, however, of bilateral strength ratios for hip abductor/adductor muscles should be interpreted with more caution.     

The relationship between vertical jump power estimates and weightlifting ability: a field-test approach

The purpose of this study was to assess the usefulness of the vertical jump and estimated vertical-jump power as a field test for weightlifting. Estimated PP output from the vertical jump was correlated with lifting ability among 64 USA national-level weightlifters (junior and senior men and women). Vertical jump was measured using the Kinematic Measurement System, consisting of a switch mat interfaced with a laptop computer. Vertical jumps were measured using a hands-on-hips method. A counter-movement vertical jump (CMJ) and a static vertical jump (SJ, 90 degrees knee angle) were measured. Two trials were given for each condition. Test-retest reliability for jump height was intra-class correlation (ICC) = 0.98 (CMJ) and ICC = 0.96 (SJ). Athletes warmed up on their own for 2-3 minutes, followed by 2 practice jumps at each condition. Peak power (PP) was estimated using the equations developed by Sayers et al. (24). The athletes' current lifting capabilities were assessed by a questionnaire, and USA national coaches checked the listed values. Differences between groups (i.e., men versus women, juniors versus resident lifters) were determined using t-tests (p < or = 0.05). Correlations were determined using Pearson's r. Results indicate that vertical jumping PP is strongly associated with weightlifting ability. Thus, these results indicate that PP derived from the vertical jump (CMJ or SJ) can be a valuable tool in assessing weightlifting performance.     

Visual-only assessments of skin lesions on free-ranging common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus): Reliability and utility of quantitative tools

Photo analysis offers a simple, noninvasive approach to characterizing and quantifying skin lesions in cetaceans; however, this process involves methodological considerations that have often gone unaddressed or have varied in approach among investigators. Subjectivity associated with classifying skin lesion types of unknown etiology and quantifying measures of skin lesion prevalence and extent from photo data raises questions about observer bias and agreement (i.e., interrater reliability), which are often ignored. The purpose of the present study was to improve upon data quality control and assessment practices when studying skin lesions using only photo data. Specifically, we tested interrater reliability of a skin lesion classification system, compared methods of quantifying skin lesion extent, and determined the validity of the dorsal fin as a proxy for skin lesions on the entire body. Acceptable levels of interrater reliability were achieved for only 7 of 17 defined lesion types, but reliability was high for the two tested measures of lesion extent. Skin lesion extent measured from the dorsal fin alone was not a decent proxy for the whole visible surface; disparities between measures were as high as 43%. We discuss the potential pitfalls discovered and provide recommendations for others attempting similar approaches.     

The construct and longitudinal validity of the basketball exercise simulation test

The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of the recently developed Basketball Exercise Simulation Test (BEST). Ten semiprofessional (age, 22.7 ± 6.1 years; height, 189.6 ± 9.5 cm; weight, 86.5 ± 18.7 kg; % body fat, 14.7 ± 3.5%) and 10 recreational (age, 26.6 ± 4.0 years; height, 185.9 ± 7.9 cm; weight, 92.6 ± 8.4 kg; % body fat, 23.8 ± 6.3%) male basketball players volunteered for the study. The participants completed a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test (Yo-Yo IRT) and BEST trial midway through the playing season. Eight participants (semiprofessional, n = 4; recreational, n = 4) completed an additional Yo-Yo IRT and BEST trial at the end of the playing season. Performance measures from the BEST included sprint decrement (%), mean sprint and circuit time (seconds), and total distance covered (m). Construct validity was calculated using Student's unpaired t-tests to identify the differences in Yo-Yo IRT and BEST performances between playing levels. Longitudinal validity was determined based on the relationship between changes (%) in Yo-Yo IRT1 and BEST performances across the season. Semiprofessional players performed significantly (p < 0.01) better in the Yo-Yo IRT (1,283 ± 62 vs. 636 ± 297 m) and BEST (mean sprint time: 1.45 ± 0.01 vs. 1.65 ± 0.03 seconds; mean circuit time: 18.98 ± 1.79 vs. 22.72 ± 2.01 seconds; sprint decrement: 8.54 ± 0.15 vs. 15.38 ± 0.27%) compared with recreational players. For the group as a whole, a strong relationship was evident between the changes in BEST sprint decrement and changes in Yo-Yo IRT performance (R = -0.815, p = 0.014) across the season. In conclusion, the BEST displayed both discriminative and longitudinal validities and provides a novel match-specific fitness test for basketball players.     

Reliability of unfamiliar, multijoint, uni- and bilateral strength tests: effects of load and laterality

To better understand the reliability of unfamiliar multijoint strength tests, 16 resistance-trained men performed maximum velocity uni- (1 leg [1L]) and bilateral (2 legs [2L]) lifts on an unfamiliar semiprone leg squat machine with loads equivalent to 40 and 70% of maximum isometric force on 2 separate occasions. Peak force was highly reproducible between testing occasions at the heavy load under both uni- and bilateral conditions (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC](1L70%) = 0.91, ICC(2L70%) = 0.92), was slightly reduced in the light load bilateral condition (ICC(2L40%) = 0.85), and was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in the light load unilateral condition (ICC(1L40%) = 0.57). Test reliability was not related to total load lifted (2L 70% > 1L 70% > 2L 40% > 1L 40%) or to the peak force developed during the tests (2L 70% > 1L 70% = 2L 40% > 1L 40%), but it was somewhat related to the time taken to attain peak force (2L 70% = 1L 70% > 2L 40% > 1L 40%). To obtain reliable strength data from athletes, more familiarization seems to be needed when they perform modified versions of common multijoint strength tests, or unfamiliar strength tests, under light load, unilateral conditions. The marked differences in reliability resulting from variation in loading conditions suggests that the reliability of a test needs to be reestablished when it is modified, before it is used to assess athlete/subject strength performance.