MEASURE WHAT MATTERS
This collection of fitness testing articles highlights assessments I recommend completing at least once a year. Depending on your goals and limitations, some may warrant more frequent check-ins. While several self-assessments are included, I encourage you to seek a reputable lab or sports clinic for more accurate testing whenever possible.
Contents
Introduction
Introduction to Assessment
Testing vs. Assessing: Understanding the Difference
While often used interchangeably, testing and assessing serve distinct purposes.
Testing measures short-term performance against specific standards, often with pass/fail outcomes.
Assessment focuses on long-term growth, helping individuals identify strengths, address weaknesses, and support continuous development.
In essence, testing provides a snapshot of achievement, whereas assessment offers a broader, more personalized view—drawing on both qualitative and quantitative data to guide future improvement.
“That Which is Measured Improves.” - Lord Kelvin
Fitness Assessments
Our fitness assessments include both lab and field testing. Lab tests offer greater control and deeper physiological insights, making them ideal for precise measurements and consistent test-retest comparisons. Field tests, however, better reflect real-world performance. Both approaches play a valuable role in a well-rounded training program.
When to Evaluate
In general, testing is most useful shortly after beginning a fitness program—especially for beginners—and during monthly recovery weeks. If you're in a focused training phase, consider lab testing every 6–8 weeks and field testing in alternate months. For those maintaining general fitness and health, an annual assessment is typically sufficient.
Test the training effect every 6-8 weeks. Test to update training parameters at least once a year
Annual testing should include a health risk profile (including blood analysis), cardiorespiratory & metabolic testing, functional strength assessments, and a body composition profile.
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