Flying 30m sprint test evaluating maximal running velocity from a rolling start.
Flying 30m Sprint Test
Test Objective
To measure the athlete's maximum speed over 30 meters, following a build-up (flying) phase, in order to evaluate their capacity to maintain top-end / peak speed.
⚙️ Required Equipment
- A flat surface (athletics track, grass, tartan, etc.).
- Floor markings at 0 m, 30 m, and an acceleration/flying zone (typically 10 to 15 meters before the 0 m mark).
- Stopwatch or ideally photoelectric cells / timing gates (highly recommended for precision).
- Cones or markers to delimit the specific zones.
- Result recording sheet.
Test Protocol
- The athlete begins their run approximately 10 to 20 meters before the starting line (0 m) to build up and reach their maximum speed exactly upon entering the measured zone.
- The timer starts the moment the athlete crosses the 0 m line and stops when they cross the 30 m line.
- The athlete must sustain a constant maximum speed throughout the entire 30-meter zone.
- Perform 2 to 3 trials, allowing sufficient and complete rest between attempts.
Evaluation
- The time achieved is recorded in seconds (e.g., 3.10 s over the flying 30 m).
- Calculation of maximum speed (m/s): Speed = 30 / Time
- This test provides a purer measurement of peak linear speed, eliminating the structural variables of the initial acceleration phase from a standstill.
✅ Recommendations
- Conduct a comprehensive warm-up (sprint drills, progressive accelerations, and dynamic mobilizations).
- Ensure the build-up phase is smooth, fluid, and controlled.
- Maintain the exact same acceleration distance across all trials to ensure data reliability.
- Prioritize the use of timing gates (photoelectric cells) to capture precise fractions of a second.