- In his interaction with fitness experts and influencers, Prime Minister asked India cricket captain Virat Kohli about the yo-yo test, that is a vital part of the Indian cricket team’s fitness routine.
So what is the yo-yo test that Modi and Kohli discussed during their interaction?
- The test was developed by Danish football physiologist Jens Bangsbo.
- Two cones are placed 20 meters apart, and the athlete has to run between them when the beep goes off.
- The beeps become more frequent after one minute, and if the athlete fails to reach the line within that time, he is expected to catch up within two more beeps.
- The test is stopped if the player fails to catch up before the beeps run out.
- The test has a beginner and an advanced level, and players are given scores.
- The minimum score set by the Board of Control for Cricket in India to pass the test is 16.1.
Is it a fool-proof system?
- No, it does have some limitations.
- The workload of a player can also affect the outcome.
- So, someone who is tested after a heavy season might struggle while a player who is fresher could easily pass.
- Also, yo-yo tests are good for generic movement analysis.
- Different players respond differently based on their metabolism and lung capacity.
- Cricket, however, needs skill sets such as hand-eye coordination, footwork, body balance, upper and lower body strength, reflexes, how you maintain balance with head position, etc. — the yo-yo test isn’t a great indicator of where a player stands.
How is it used in other sports?
- The par pass score is higher in hockey and football.
- But it isn’t the sole criterion for selection; the test is a mere indicator of the player’s fitness levels.