Ruffier-Dickson test evaluating cardiac recovery ability after standardized physical effort.
Ruffier-Dickson Test
Objective
To measure the heart's ability to adapt to standardized physical effort and evaluate cardiovascular recovery efficiency. Widely used in physical conditioning, physical education, and sports medical screening.
Equipment Needed
Stopwatch ⏱️.
Logbook or app to record heart rates ❤️.
Flat and secure surface.
Appropriate sportswear.
Protocol
Rest: Measure resting heart rate for one full minute (P1).
Effort: Perform 30 full squats in 45 seconds.
Immediate Recovery: Measure heart rate immediately after the effort (P2).
Delayed Recovery: Measure heart rate one minute after the effort (P3).
Mathematical Equations
Ruffier Index (IR):
IR = ((P1 + P2 + P3) - 200) / 10
Dickson Index (ID):
ID = ((P2 - 70) + 2 * (P3 - P1)) / 10
Interpretation
Ruffier Index (IR)
Adaptation Level
Dickson Index (ID)
Physical Condition
0 – 5
Very Good
0 – 2
Very Good
5 – 10
Average
2 – 5
Good
10 – 15
Poor
5 – 8
Average
> 15
Very Poor
> 8
Poor
Recommendations
Ensure a quiet environment for accurate heart rate measurement.
Do not perform the test if fatigued, ill, or if cardiac issues exist.
Repeat periodically to track progression.
Use in combination with other endurance tests (e.g., Cooper, VAMEVAL, 30-15).