PRIMARY OUTPUT
POWER · HORIZONTAL JUMP
Standing Broad Jump Test
A simple horizontal jump field test recorded as distance. It is practical for youth groups but must not be mislabeled as direct force-plate power or swim-start performance.EQUIPMENT
Tape, start line, non-slip floor
IMPORTANT LIMIT
Not force, RFD or start power
COACH PROTOCOL
Standardized administration
Use the same flat surface, footwear, start line, warm-up, arm-swing rule and measurement method. Provide two practice jumps, then three scored attempts with sufficient recovery.- 01
Set the course
Fix a start line and tape measure perpendicular to it. Ensure a dry, level, non-slip landing zone with clear run-off space.
- 02
Start position
Athlete stands with toes immediately behind the line, feet approximately shoulder-width. Use the same arm-swing rule at every session.
- 03
Jump and land
Jump forward from two feet and land on two feet under control. A hand or body contact behind the heels determines the nearest landing mark; a step back or fall invalidates the attempt.
- 04
Measure and score
Measure from the takeoff line to the nearest landing contact. Record all three attempts in centimeters, invalid trials and the best valid distance.
PRINTABLE FORMS
Use the controlled packet
The coach packet includes setup, scoring, stop rules, a multi-athlete sheet, interpretation boundaries and hot research links.INTERPRETATION
Keep distance in context.
- Compare the same athlete on the same surface and in the same footwear.
- Report the best valid attempt and retain all attempt data.
- Age, growth, body size, skill, familiarity and maturation influence results.
- Do not use elite adult cut points as youth pass/fail standards.
- Do not claim the test directly measures swim-start or turn power.
SCIENTIFIC JOURNALS
Supporting evidence and limits
Standing broad jump is widely used as a feasible lower-limb field performance test. Distance remains a task score; it is not a force-plate measurement.- Castro-Piñero et al. — Criterion-related validity of field-based muscular fitness tests in youthJournal or DOI record ↗
- Thomas et al. — Standing broad jump percentile values in children and adolescentsJournal or DOI record ↗
- Bergeron et al. — IOC youth athletic development consensusJournal or DOI record ↗
- Cruz-León et al. — Feasibility and safety of field-based fitness testsJournal or DOI record ↗
COMMON QUESTIONS
Standing Broad Jump Test FAQ
How many attempts count?
After familiarization, record three scored attempts and use the best valid distance while retaining every attempt.
Can we compare different surfaces?
No. Surface and footwear can change performance, so comparisons should use the same conditions.
Does a longer jump prove a faster start?
No. Swim starts include block skill, reaction, flight, entry and underwater phases that this land test does not measure.
Should we score by age?
Age bands can organize reporting, but growth and maturation matter. TEAMGOLDUSA does not use one universal pass/fail distance.
Stop criteria and scope
Stop for pain, dizziness or unsafe landing control. Do not test on a wet or slippery surface or when the landing zone is obstructed. Follow individualized restrictions and qualified medical guidance.