Zig-Zag Test

The objective of the zig-zag test is to monitor the athlete’s speed and agility.

Required resources

To undertake this test you will require:

• 5 cones
• Non slip surface
• Stop watch
• Assistant.

How to conduct the test

The Zig-Zag Test is conducted as follows:

• Mark out the course with four cones placed on the corners of a rectangle 10 by 16 feet, with one more cone placed in the centre.
• The athlete follows the grey route identified on the diagram.
• The athlete completes one circuit of the course starting and finishing at the Start/Finish cone(see picture below).
• The assistance records the time for the athlete to complete the course.

Analysis

Analysis of the result is by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement in the athlete’s agility.

Target group

This test is suitable for active athletes but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

Reliability

Reliability would depend upon how strict the test is conducted and the individual’s level of motivation to perform the test.

Validity

There are no published tables to relate to potential performance in competition.