Topend Sports Logo

All About The Beep Test

The beep test is possibly the most commonly used endurance fitness test conducted around the world. It is so popular because it is simple to conduct, requires minimal and inexpensive equipment, and large groups can be tested at once. The test involves running back and forth between markers 20 meters apart, in time to audio "beeps" which get progressively faster.

shuttle run beep test imagerunning the shuttle run beep test

The test goes by many names (shuttle run test, beep, bleep test (UK), yo-yo, PACER, Aero, multistage fitness test, MSFT), but is essentially the same whatever it is called.

As it is so popular, there is a lot of information about the test, including the many pages on this site. There is also a lot of research on the test, and data on results and interpretation. Below you will find links to a large range of information about the beep test.

Conducting the test

  • Test Procedure — detailed instructions for conducting the beep test.
  • Test Videos — video examples of the beep test being conducted.
  • Introduction — the verbal instrucitons to be given prior to the test

About the Test

  • Beep Test Table — which has all the timings and speeds for the commonly used beep test
  • Beep Shuttle Listing — comparison listing of the number of runs for each level of common versions of the test.
  • Test Variations — history of the test and descriptions of some of the variations of the test.
  • Modified Beep Tests — the beep test has been modified to suit different populations groups and different exercise modalities.
  • Beep Test Alternatives — the beep test may not always be the best choice.

Test Performance

Research

  • List of References — a selection of research papers relating to the 20m multistage fitness test
  • Research Ideas — want to do some research? Here are some project ideas.

Other Things Beep

Scoring the Test

Beep Test Audio & Software

More Info

  • Beep FAQ — some common questions and answers about the beep test.


Related Pages

send us a comment Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.

Testing Extra

We have over 400 fitness tests listed, so it's not easy to choose the best one to use. You should consider the validity, reliability, costs and ease of use for each test. Use our testing guide to conducting, recording, and interpreting fitness tests. Any questions, please ask or search for your answer.

 → How to Cite