[Test for the determination of endurance fitness and training style in young ice hockey players].

A test similar to the Conconi test was developed by the authors, to be used specifically with ice hockey players. The aim was to measure the aerobic performance capacity of these athletes. The results give us on one hand informations on the actual performance potential of these sportsmen. On the other hand, they enable us to design an optimal training schedule. With such data in hand, it becomes possible to determine which intensity of endurance training is optimally adapted to an individual's progress of performance. It is thus easier to develop the sought after basic fitness in youth players. 120 ice hockey players of several leagues had to go through either a Conconi test, or our modified, more sports specific Probst test. 54 of these were junior players (age 15-16). Our purpose in this paper is to discuss the aim of such endurance tests for youth players.