Bordeaux 2 Test (Cazorla)

Evaluate progressive aerobic capacity through a multi-stage field running protocol.

Bordeaux 2 Test (Cazorla)

Test Objective

The Bordeaux 2 Test (Cazorla) is a progressive exercise test used to evaluate the aerobic capacity (VO₂max) of athletes. This test is designed to simulate running efforts with progressive pace changes, making it particularly useful for field sports such as football, rugby, and basketball.

Test Protocol

The test consists of 10 progressive stages with a gradual increase in speed. Each stage lasts 3 minutes, and the intensity increases with each new stage.

Execution Sequence:

• Warm-up: 10-15 minutes before starting the test.
• The runner begins at a moderate speed (usually around 8-10 km/h) and must run at a dictated speed during each 3-minute stage.
• At each new stage, the speed increases by 0.5 to 1 km/h, depending on the targeted intensity level.
• The objective is to maintain a steady speed without interruption. The test ends when the athlete can no longer keep up with the pace or fails to reach the required speed twice consecutively.

Results Analysis

Test results are based on the final speed reached and the total time elapsed. From this data, it is possible to estimate the Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS) and, consequently, evaluate the athlete's VO₂max.

VO₂max Estimation:

VO₂max is calculated based on the maximum speed achieved during the test. While several formulas exist to estimate VO₂max from this test's data, a common method is as follows:

$$\text{VO}_2\text{max} = (\text{Speed} \times 0.025) + 40$$

(Note: "Speed" refers to the speed of the last completed stage in km/h).

Example: If the athlete reaches a speed of 14 km/h, then:

VO₂max = (14 × 0.025) + 40 = 45.35 ml/kg/min

Interpretation of Results

Speed (km/h)	Level
< 8	Poor
8 – 12	Average
12 – 16	Good
> 16	Excellent

✅ Advantages

• Allows for the progressive evaluation of aerobic endurance.
• Highly useful for field sports where the ability to maintain sustained effort is crucial.
• Easy to administer without expensive equipment.
• Allows coaches to track athletes' progress over time.

⚠️ Limitations and Recommendations

• Requires a flat, safe, and marked space for running.
• The test can be challenging for beginners due to the progressive increase in intensity.
• A thorough warm-up and cool-down are essential to prevent injuries.
• This test is geared more towards trained athletes rather than untrained individuals.

💡 Coach’s Tip

The Bordeaux 2 Test (Cazorla) can be an excellent tool for monitoring the development of aerobic capacity over the seasons and for adapting training sessions based on the results. You can also use it to identify an athlete's weaknesses and work on improving their maximal speed