Ruler Drop Test

Objective
The objective of this test is to monitor the athlete's reaction time.

Required Resources
To undertake this test you will require:

Metre ruler

Assistant

How to conduct the test

The ruler is held by the assistant between the outstretched index finger and
thumb of the athlete's dominant hand, so that the top of the athlete's thumb is
level with the zero centimetre line on the ruler

The assistant instructs the athlete to catch the ruler as soon as possible after it
has been released

The assistant releases the ruler and the athlete catches the ruler between their
index finger and thumb as quick as possible

The assistant is to record distance between the bottom of the ruler and the top of
the athlete's thumb where the ruler has been caught.

The test is repeated 2 more times and the average value used in the assessment

Assessment
The following normative data is available for this test.
The following are national norms, adapted from Davis (2000)[1] for 16 to 19 year olds.
The following are national norms, adapted from Davis (2000)[1] for 16 to 19 year olds.
Excellent

Above Average

Average

Below Average

Poor

<7.5cm

7.5 - 15.9cm

15.9 - 20.4cm

20.4 - 28cm

>28cm

Enter the Distance (cm) and then select the "Calculate" button for an analysis of the
results.
Distance

cm

Reaction time

seconds

Assessment

Calculations are based on the normative data table

The algorithm to calculate the reaction speed is d = vt + at where

d = distance in metres

v = initial velocity = 0

a = acceleration due to gravity = 9.81m/s

t = time in seconds

We need to manipulate d = vt + at to give us an algorithm for t

As v = 0 then vt = 0 therefore the algorithm is t = Sqrt(2d/a)
Example

d = 9cm

t = sqrt(2 0.09 9.81)

t = sqrt(0.01835)

t = 0.135 seconds

Analysis
Analysis of the results is by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected
that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an
improvement in the athlete's reaction speed.

Target Group
This test is suitable for all athletes but not for individuals where the test would be
contraindicated.

Reliability
Test reliability refers to the degree to which a test is consistent and stable in measuring
what it is intended to measure. Reliability will depend upon how strict the test is
conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test. The following link
provides a variety of factors that may influence the results and therefore the test
reliability.

Validity
Test validity refers to the degree to which the test actually measures what it claims to
measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions made on the
basis of test scores are appropriate and meaningful. This test provides a means to
monitor the effect of training on the athlete's physical development.

Advantages

Minimal equipment required

Simple to set up and conduct

Can be conducted almost anywhere

Disadvantages

Assistant required to administer the test

Free Calculator

Ruler Drop Test Calculator - a free Microsoft Excel spreadsheet that you can
download and use on your computer.