Comparison of Sprint and Run Times with Performance on the Wingate Anaerobic Test

Abstract

In recent years the classic Margaria step-test for anaerobic power has been largely replaced by bicycle ergometer tests, the most popular of these being the Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the WAnT and sprint-run times and to determine the influence of age and weight on the WAnT scores. The 56 male volunteers (age 10–15 years) recruited from a track club and junior high school represented a wide range of athletic abilities. Subjects were tested for anaerobic power (5 sec output) and capacity (30 sec output) using the Wingate test procedures. Wingate scores for anaerobic power and capacity were only moderately correlated with 50 yd dash times (r = −.53 and −.53) and with the 600 yd run (r = −.26 and −.29). Partial correlations between these variables were lower when age adjusted and higher when adjusted for body weight. Results of this study indicate that the Wingate anaerobic test is only a moderate predictor of dash or run times, but becomes a stronger predictor when WAnT scores are adjusted for body weight. The high correlation of the WAnT with body weight must be taken into account when comparing the anaerobic capacity of individuals. The standing long jump would be the preferred field test of sprint-related ability because of its simplicity, but the Wingate lest has the advantage of providing a quantitative measurement of anaerobic fitness.

Key Words:

• Wingate test
• anaerobic power
• sprint ability