Power is the rate of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) used over a single or multiple maximal effort against a submaximal load. Peak power is the greatest output or production of work over a given amount of time. Power is able to account for a combination of strength, velocity, force and neuromuscular adaptations. Power tests help create an athletic profile and can also be used as an index of fitness or performance adaptation over time. Power is especially important since tests that focus on raw strength or speed do not account for the neuromuscular and energy transfer properties captured by power tests. Power tests are important for sports that require explosive energy such as sprinting, weightlifting, football, soccer, basketball, tennis and other sports.

 

Wingate Test

The Wingate test measures peak anaerobic power, anaerobic capacity and anaerobic fatigue. The test is performed on a cycle ergometer and involves thirty seconds of maximal effort cycling.

 

Vertical Jump

The vertical jump test is a simple and quick test that can be used to measure power and explosiveness. This test is directly applicable to most sports that require jumping and others that rely heavily on lower body power output.

 

Arm Crank Test (Upper Body Wingate)

This test is similar to the Wingate test but utilizes the power of the upper body instead of the lower body. An arm crank is used during a maximal effort of thirty seconds. This test measures peak anaerobic power, anaerobic capacity and anaerobic fatigue.