Why We Test (And Why It Matters for You)

Let’s face it—most of us gravitate toward the things we’re good at. We like the exercises that feel strong, smooth, and gratifying. We tend to avoid the ones that are uncomfortable, unfamiliar, or reveal our limitations. And that’s human nature. But if your goal is well-rounded fitness, injury prevention, and long-term health, only doing the fun stuff just won’t cut it.

That’s why we test.

At Driven, our performance assessments are designed to give you a clear, objective picture of your current physical capabilities—not just where you shine, but also where there may be gaps. Testing shows you what’s improving, what’s staying flat, and what might be quietly declining while you’re focused elsewhere. It provides context, reveals trends, and helps us make better decisions about your training.

We evaluate five key domains of fitness:

• Strength
• Power
• Cardiovascular Fitness
• Balance & Flexibility
• Body Composition

We use a combination of simple field tests, predictive equations, and normative comparisons to assess where you are and how you stack up over time and against peers in your age group. This isn’t just about collecting numbers—it’s about using data to drive smarter training.

Strength

We estimate 1RMs for Trap Bar Deadlift, Bench Press, and Pull-Ups using submaximal loads. Grip Strength is tested directly. These tests give us a well-rounded picture of relative and absolute strength, and allow us to compare against age-matched norms. Grip strength in particular is a simple yet powerful predictor of overall health and resilience if the other tests are not a good option.

Power

We assess vertical jump height and maximum watts on a 10-pull SkiErg test. These show how efficiently you produce force—something that tends to decline faster than strength as we age.

Balance & Flexibility

This includes the Sit & Reach test, Shoulder Mobility, Single-Leg Balance, and the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand. These tests capture your control, symmetry, and ability to move well—key components in fall prevention and athletic function.

Cardiovascular Fitness

Depending on your level and goals, we might use the 2K Row, 5-Minute Bike, 3-Minute Step Test, or VO2 max assessments. These are scalable and help identify aerobic capacity and recovery ability.

Body Composition

We measure weight, skinfold body fat, and waist-to-hip ratio. For deeper insight, we encourage periodic DXA scans to assess muscle mass, visceral fat, and bone density.

Why It Matters

You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Testing helps identify blind spots, prevents stagnation, and makes your training more purposeful. It also gives you a reason to push on the days you want to coast. Progress doesn’t just feel good—it’s motivating.

More importantly, testing helps us ensure you’re building a physical profile that supports how you want to live, move, and perform—not just today, but 10, 20, even 30 years from now.

Testing isn’t about judgment. It’s about direction. Let’s see where you are—and where you can go next.

Want to know how you stack up? Contact us to learn more or to schedule your own assessment!