New Perspectives of the Traditional and Modified 5-0-5 Change of Direction Test

ABSTRACT Change of direction (COD) ability is considered essential for successful participation in many field and court sports. Several COD models that currently exist identify technique, leg strength qualities, and straight sprint speed as the key determinants of COD performance. This narrative review discusses the original COD model, focusing on specific leg strength qualities (concentric, eccentric, isometric, and reactive strength) and their relationship with 5-0-5 COD performance. It is clear from the existing literature that each of these leg strength qualities contributes to the performance of the 5-0-5 COD test; however, it is unclear which are most at play during the phases of performing a COD. This review introduces a new COD model and a way to split the modified 5-0-5 COD test into 4 distinct phases (acceleration, deceleration, 180 ○ turn, and reacceleration). This new perspective and proposed method of testing provides greater diagnostic value to the modified 5-0-5 COD test and allows coaches and practitioners to be more targeted with feedback and programming to improve COD and sporting performance.