To optimize training strategies and monitor training loads, it is essential to regularly assess tennis players using valid and reliable measurements and instruments (Ferrauti et al., 2018 Reilly et al., 2009).
In this regard, the concomitant development of strength, power, speed, and agility has been proposed as a prerequisite for success in tennis (Fernández-Fernández et al., 2014). Tennis is a complex sport which involves sport-specific technical skills together with a high level of numerous physical components (Fernández-Fernández et al., 2009). Since the Hexagon test is only moderately correlated with more traditional speed-power tests, this measurement should not be used to replace more standard performance tests (e.g., CMJ, 20-m sprint, 5-0-5).The present data suggest that the Hexagon test is appropriate to be included in tennis players’ testing batteries.Performance in the Hexagon test is significantly related to different measures of speed, jump, and change of direction ability.The Hexagon test is a simple and user-friendly test, which has shown high reliability in young tennis players.The test is related to measures of speed, power and agility, although the magnitude of these relationships does not allow for the replacement of the more traditional assessments (e.g., CMJ, 20-m sprint, T-Test) within tennis players’ testing batteries. The hexagon test is a simple, quick, easy-to-implement and reliable test, which allow it to be included in tennis players’ testing batteries.
Significant small to large correlations were found between the hexagon test time and linear sprint time ( r = 0.40 to 0.60), COD tests ( r = 0.53 to 0.79), and jumping performance ( r = -0.40 to -0.68). The hexagon test showed high relative reliability (ICC = 0.88) and low SEM values (0.17 s).
Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Pearson’s product correlations ( r) were used to analyze the relationships between the hexagon test and the other fitness tests. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the standard error of measurement (SEM) were used to assess the reliability of the test. Thirty-five under-16 tennis players completed a testing battery including the hexagon test, 20-m linear sprint, bilateral and unilateral countermovement jumps (CMJ), triple leg-hop for distance, T-Test, 5-0-5 and Pro-Agility test on two different sessions, separated by one week. This study aimed to assess the relationships between sprinting, jumping, and change of direction (COD) ability and hexagon test performance. The hexagon agility test is widely used in tennis players’ fitness evaluation, although its validity has not been fully stablished.
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