Assessing Agility
T- Test : There are several tests that can be used to assess agility. For coaches with limited resources and
time however, the T-test is one of the best options, as it is very reliable yet easy to administer.
Equipment: Tape measure, four cones, stop-watch, flat surface (area > 100 square yards)
Set-up and Directions: Set up four cones as shown in Figure 1.7. The athlete should be allowed to warm
up for several minutes with some light jogging and dynamic stretching. They may also be given a practice
run at submaximal speed. The athlete begins at the cone marked A. On the timer's signal, the player
sprints forward and touches the base of cone B with their right hand. The player then side shuffles left and
touches the base of the cone marked C with their left hand. They then side shuffle to the right until they
touch the base of the cone marked D (10 yards) with the right hand. The athlete then side shuffles left and
touches the base of cone B with the left hand. Finally, they backpedal until they have passed cone A
where the timer stops the watch. Repeat the test after a 5-minute rest and average the time of both runs to
get a final score.
Figure 1.7 Using the T- Test for Assessing AgilityNOTE: When side shuffling (B to C, C to D and D to B), the athlete must remain facing forward and is
not allowed to crossover the feet. Ensure the athlete always touches the base of each cone.
Assessment: For senior players (18 years and older) a time of less than 9 seconds for men and 10.
seconds for women is considered to be an excellent score, whereas times slower (greater) than 11 seconds
for men and 13.5 seconds for women are considered below average. Athletes with below average scores
should focus on developing the various components of agility discussed in Chapter 5.