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Definition
What is IR2?
The Yo Yo IR2 Test is the advanced version of the intermittent recovery Yo-Yo test. Like IR1, it uses 20 meter shuttle runs, audio beeps, and brief recovery periods, but it begins faster and places a heavier demand on both aerobic and anaerobic systems.
Because the test is intense, it is typically reserved for trained athletes rather than general fitness groups.
How to perform the test
Run Yo-Yo IR2 only with athletes who are prepared for high-intensity shuttle work and understand the Yo-Yo Test audio format.
- Required setupUse cones, a flat lane, a 20 meter measure, Yo-Yo Test audio, and a score sheet or app.
- Cone placementMark the start line, 20 meter sprint line, and 10 meter recovery area for jogging recovery.
- 20 meter explanationAthletes sprint 20 meters out, turn, and return before following the recovery signal.
- Audio usageStart on the beep and follow the faster IR2 speed progression until the athlete cannot keep pace.
- Basic rulesReach each line on time, complete the recovery route, and record the final level and shuttle.
Difference between IR1 vs IR2
| Area | Yo-Yo IR1 | Yo-Yo IR2 |
|---|---|---|
| Audience | Team sport athletes and developing players | Advanced and elite athletes |
| Starting intensity | Lower and more accessible | Higher from the beginning |
| Primary use | Intermittent endurance and recovery tracking | High-intensity repeated effort capacity |
| Session feel | Longer build-up | Shorter, sharper, and more demanding |
Advanced athlete usage
Coaches use IR2 when IR1 no longer gives enough separation between high-performing athletes. It can help monitor elite squads, compare positional demands, and assess whether players can repeat hard running under fatigue.
Speed progression
In IR2, the audio pace increases through progressive stages. Athletes must reach each line on the signal, recover quickly, and be ready for the next repetition. Small pacing errors become costly because the starting speed is already high.
Sports usage
Elite football
Useful for match-intensity repeated running and positional profiling.
Rugby
Supports conditioning decisions for repeated high-load phases.
Basketball and hockey
Relevant for athletes who sprint, stop, turn, and recover repeatedly.
Yo Yo IR2 Test FAQs
Is IR2 suitable for beginners?
No. It is demanding. Use it only with well-conditioned athletes who already know shuttle testing.
Is the setup the same as IR1?
Almost. Same 20 meter shuttles, but IR2 uses a longer recovery jog and a faster audio pace.
What is a good IR2 score?
It depends on your sport and position. Use it to compare advanced athletes within the same squad.
Why use IR2 instead of IR1?
Use IR2 when athletes are advanced and IR1 scores no longer separate the group well enough.