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Definition
What is Yo-Yo IR1 Test?
The Yo Yo IR1 Test is a field fitness test for intermittent sports. Athletes run 20 meters out and 20 meters back in time with Yo-Yo Test audio, then complete a short recovery movement before the next shuttle begins.
IR1 starts at a manageable pace and becomes progressively harder. Coaches use it for Yo-Yo Test levels, repeat-effort endurance, and practical team fitness scoring.
How to perform the test
Set up the Yo-Yo IR1 intermittent recovery test on a flat surface with enough space for safe turning, recovery, and group testing.
- Required setupUse cones, a measuring tape, a flat 20 meter lane, and Yo-Yo Test audio.
- Cone placementMark the start line, the 20 meter turn line, and a 5 meter recovery zone behind the start.
- 20 meter explanationAthletes run 20 meters out, turn, and return 20 meters before the recovery period.
- Audio usageStart on the beep, reach each line on time, and follow the level changes in the audio.
- Basic rulesTouch or cross the line, recover in the marked zone, and stop when the athlete can no longer keep pace.
How the Yo-Yo IR1 Test works
- Mark two parallel lines 20 meters apart, plus a recovery area behind the start line.
- Athletes start on the signal and run to the far line before the beep.
- They turn, return to the start line, and use the recovery interval.
- The audio increases the running speed as levels progress.
- The score is recorded as the final level, shuttle, or total distance completed.
IR1 Test Rules
- Use a flat, non-slip surface with clearly marked lines.
- Start behind the line and reach each 20 meter marker on or before the beep.
- Turn efficiently without cutting the distance short.
- Use the recovery period as instructed by the protocol.
- Stop the test when the athlete repeatedly fails to meet the audio pace or voluntarily stops from fatigue.
Yo-Yo Test levels and shuttles
Each Yo Yo Test level contains a set of shuttle runs. As the level rises, the time allowed for each shuttle becomes shorter, so the athlete must run faster to stay with the audio.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Shuttle | One 20 meter run segment between the marked lines. |
| Level | A speed stage in the audio track. Higher levels mean faster running. |
| Recovery | A brief active rest after each running effort. |
Benefits of Yo Yo IR1
IR1 is popular because it is sport-specific, affordable, and easy to repeat. It helps coaches monitor endurance, recovery ability, preseason readiness, return-to-play progress, and changes in conditioning over time.
Sports using IR1
Football
Useful for repeated sprint and recovery demands across a match.
Cricket
Common for fielding fitness, selection preparation, and squad standards.
Rugby
Supports conditioning checks for players who repeat high-intensity phases.
How scoring works
Yo-Yo Test scoring is usually recorded as the final level, shuttle, or total distance completed. Zepenta can help convert supported IR1 results into a practical VO2 max test estimate for tracking fitness trends.
Yo Yo IR1 Test FAQ
What equipment do I need?
A flat 20 meter space, cones, the Yo-Yo Test audio, and a way to record your score.
Is the Yo-Yo Test harder than the Beep Test?
It is different. IR1 adds recovery breaks and is built for stop-start team sports. The Beep Test runs non-stop.
What is a good IR1 score?
It depends on your age, sport, and position. Compare it to your team and your own past results.
Can beginners do the IR1 Test?
Fit beginners can, with supervision. If you have any injury or health concerns, check with a professional first.