A re-appraisal of the reliability of the 20 m multi-stage shuttle run test

Abstract

Most studies that have set out to quantify the test-retest reliability of the multi-stage shuttle run test (MSSRT) have typically used inappropriate statistics (correlation coefficients) and/or one of two possible calculation methods for deriving predictions of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), and have not considered the impact of habituation on performance in the MSSRT and whether its reliability improves beyond a single repeat trial. In this context, the aim of this study was to assess the reliability of the MSSRT over three trials. Thirty-five healthy and active university games players (22 males and 13 females) performed the MSSRT on three occasions, 1 week apart. Individual total numbers of completed shuttles were recorded and estimated VO2max values were derived via established equation and table methods. Analysis revealed that the overall mean VO2max score from the equation method (52.5 +/- 7.8 ml kg(-1) min(-1)) was significantly higher than that for the table (46.9 +/- 8.9 ml kg(-1) min(-1)), whilst the mean trial 2 and trial 3 scores were significantly higher than that for trial 1, but not different to each other. The Limits of Agreement for the table method were -1.4 +/- 5.0 (trial 1-trial 2) and 0.0 +/- 5.5 ml kg(-1) min(-1) (trial 2-trial 3), and for the equation method -1.1 +/- 4.7 (trial 1-trial 2) and 0.0 +/- 5.0 ml kg(-1) min(-1) (trial 2-trial 3). These results suggest that systematic bias is eliminated after the first trial (due to habituation), but a considerable amount of random error remains, regardless of the type of score calculated. Hence, among our sample, the MSSRT does not appear to be reliable enough for the purpose of monitoring changes in VO2max due to non-random reasons.

Determination of Aerobic Performance in Youth Soccer Players: Effect of Direct And Indirect Methods

“…In general, the SRT appears to be highly predictive for VO 2max (Lamb and Rogers, 2007). Although several studies have found a low correlation between the values of VO 2max determined in the SRT and those determined in laboratory tests (O’Gorman et al, 2000; St Clair Gibson et al, 1998), most studies have shown the opposite (McNaughton et al, 1998; Wilkinson et al, 1999).…”

“…According to Lamb and Rogers (2007), the predictive formulas developed for measuring VO 2max using the SRT are influenced by intrinsic factors such as the sample’s size, degree of heterogeneity and other dependent variables used in the regression model. In the current study, we used the predictive formula developed by Léger et al (1988), which was intended for use in populations of students, healthy adults, academic practitioners and individuals practicing sports such as basketball.…”

Statement on Exercise Testing in Cystic Fibrosis

“…However, due to a considerable amount of random error with repeated testing, the validity of the 20-meter shuttle run test to monitor changes in V ∙ O 2 peak has been questioned [119]. …”

A review of the physiological and psychological health and wellbeing of naval service personnel and the modalities used for monitoring

“…Research originally indicated that this test was a valid indicator of VO 2 max in active men and women [181, 182]. Additional research found that although the test has a strong test-retest reliability, it tends to underestimate VO 2 max when compared to a direct measure [183], with improved accuracy depending on the prediction model [184, 185]. Similar to the Chester and the Harvard step tests, this test accounts for a person’s ability to carry their own body weight, however; the MSFT can be influenced by running economy and mechanical efficiency [186], which may be crucial to moving around a ship.…”