Kosmin Test. The Kosmin test was devised in the USSR to predict an athlete's 800 meter or 1500 meter time. This test can measure time for athlete which take 800 meter or 1500 meter categories. Suitable for runner athlete.
Required resources
To undertake this test you will require:
• 400m track
• Stop watch
• Assistant.
How to conduct the test
800 metres
The athlete is required to run two controlled maximal efforts of 60 seconds with a recovery of 3 minutes. The athlete commences their second run from the point where the first run was completed. The total distance covered by the two runs is recorded:
• Run for 60 seconds
• 3 minute recovery
• Run for 60 seconds – start from the point at which you finished the last 60 second run
• Record total distance covered.
1500 metres
The athlete is required to run four controlled maximal efforts of 60 seconds with a diminishing recovery of 3 minutes, 2 minutes and 1 minute. The athlete commences their next run from the point where the previous run was completed. The total distance covered by the four runs is recorded
• Run for 60 seconds
• 3 minute recovery
• Run for 60 seconds – start from the point at which you finished the last 60 second run
• 2 minutes recovery
• Run for 60 seconds – start from the point at which you finished the last 60 second run
• 1 minute recovery
• Run for 60 seconds – start from the point at which you finished the last 60 second run
• Record total distance covered.
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.
The athlete's potential 800m or 1500m time can be predicted by using the total distance covered in the following appropriate equation.
Distance Equation
800m Time = 217.77778 – (Total Distance x 0.119556) 1500m Time = 500.52609 – (Total Distance x 0.162174)
Normative data for kosmin test
800 meter
1500 meter
Target group
This test is suitable for middle distance 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 published tables to relate results to potential performance in competition and the correlation is high.
Limitations
The equations can be used for male and female athletes but they do tend to over predict for female athletes. For females I recommend you add 5 seconds for the 800ms time and 10 seconds for the 1500m time.
Reference: Brian Mackenzie, 2005. 101 Performance Evaluation Test