Testing

From a sport science perspective, the purpose of testing usually is one of the following:

• setting base-line measurements or benchmarks (to identify, compare and/or recruit players)
• investigate discrepancy after injuries (to ensure proper rehabilitation)
• monitoring athletes (to identify fatigue, overtraining or non-responders to training)
  

Depending on the age group and performance level of the team, testing can be:

• logical - to test if your training had an effect on the physical capacity on the player
• crucial - to decide whether a player should still continue to rehabilitate from injury or is ready to play
• "nice to have" - to receive data which can be used to decide whether a player should play over another
• a waste of time - and the time should be spend on tactical things or simply to have fun

With those statements in mind you need to decide whether you...must (not), (don't) need to, should (not) test your players.

Fact is, with an increase in age and professionalism of the environment, more time can be spend with the player and therefore testing should be included. Coaching a young team on a recreational level usually means limited time and player availability and therefore the time should (not) be used (for testing, but) to train football specific and multidirectional.

Important components in football that should be tested and monitored are:

• Speed
• Agility
• Change of Direction
  
• Aerobic endurance
• Anaerobic endurance
• Strength and power
• Skill