Laboratory and Field Tests in Evaluation of Anaerobic Fitness in Elite Hurdlers

Sport results in hurdling (110m HH and 400m IH) are determined by movement coordination (technical skills) and work capacity. The most important mechanisms incorporated in hurdling include anaerobic power and anaerobic capacity, which are manifested in speed and strength exercises. The main objective of this paper was to determine the relationships between results of laboratory and field anaerobic tests with sport specific results in hurdle racing. Additionally, an alternative application of these tests in the evaluation of fitness of hurdlers was considered. The research material included 45 Polish elite hurdlers over 110m (n=21) and 400m (n=24). All considered athletes were of national and international level, including European and World Championship finalists. During three different stages of the annual training cycle all athletes completed the 30s Wingate test and 4 anaerobic field tests which included the 30m sprint, standing triple jump, overhead shot throw and a 150 or 500m run. The differences in results obtained in particular phases of the training cycle were analyzed with the use of ANOVA, while those results between high and intermediate hurdlers were analyzed with the Students “t” test. The relationships between sport results and values of anaerobic tests were determined with the application of Pearson’s linear correlations. The research showed no differences in results of the Wingate test conducted in particular stages of the annual macrocycle. Significant differences were observed in the results of field tests, especially those evaluating explosive strength of lower limbs and specific speed endurance.