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Margaria Kalamen power test

Introduction

The Margaria Kalamen power test is particularly suitable for athletes who need leg power.

What is the point?

A combination of strength and speed, power is an essential ingredient for many athletes. The Margaria Kalamen power test is simple to perform, requiring nothing more than a flight of stairs and stopwatch.

What do you need?

  • A stopwatch
     
  • An assistant
     
  • A flight of at least 12 steps, each about 17.5 cm high
     
How do you do the test?

Mark the course as follows: A starting line 6 metres in front of the first step; the 3rd, 6th and 9th step clearly marked with tape or chalk.

Prepare as follows:
  • Measure and record the athlete's weight
     
  • Measure and record the vertical distance between the 3rd and 9th steps
     
  • Take 2 or 3 practice runs up the steps to warm up
     
Test protocol is as follows:
  • On the command "Go", sprint from the start line to the stairs, then spring up three steps at a time (landing on the 3rd, 6th and 9th stairs)
     
  • The assistant records the time from the 3rd step to the 9th step
     
  • Repeat twice more, with a 2-3 minute recovery between each test
     


What results you'll get :

Comparing you results over a period of time will give a good measure of progress.

You can also calculate power (Watts) as follows:

P=(M x D) x 9.8/t where:

  • P = Power (Watts)
  • M = Body mass (kg)
  • D = Vertical distance (m)**
  • t = Time (s)

**The vertical distance (D) between the 3rd and 9th step must be accurately measured and used when calculating the power.

What is being measured again?

This is an excellent measure of lower body power.


 
 

 

 

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