Olaf Verschuren, Tim Takken, Marjolijn Ketelaar, Jan Willem Gorter & Paul J. M. Helders.
The purpose of this study was to investigate reliability, construct validity, and feasibility of two sprint tests for children with cerebral palsy (CP). The sample consisted of twenty-six children with CP (7-18 years of age; Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] level I or II). On different occasions, the 10 x 5-Meter Sprint Test and the Muscle Power Sprint Test were conducted and then scored by different assessors. The authors found excellent interobserver reliability (intraclass correlation [ICC] = 1.0 and ICC >= 0.97) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.97 and ICC >= 0.97). They also noted that the scores differed significantly on both sprint tests for children classified at GMFCS level I and level II. Mean scores for feasibility ranged from 8.8 to 9.2 on a 10-cm visual analog scale (10 = the best).
In conclusion, both exercise tests are reliable and have good feasibility for children and adolescents with CP (GMFCS level I or II). Construct validity is also supported for both sprint tests in children classified at GMFCS level I and level II.
Pediatric Physical Therapy, 2007. 19(2):108-115