Possibilities for Improving the Accuracy of Speed Measurement in Physical Education and Sports Classes
B. R. Zlatev

, O. H. Groshev

, P. S. Yordanov

, H. S. Andonov

Abstract: Objective: The aim of our research is to compare the measurement accuracy with an electronic stopwatch and a timing system on a “30 m sprint running test”. Material and methods: A total of 23 students aged 16±0.5 years participated in the research. The following methods are used: information survey, mathematical-statistical methods - Student's t-tests for dependent samples, confirmatory pedagogical experiment with the test “30 m sprint running test”, theoretical analysis and synthesis. Discussion: Speed is one of the basic motor qualities of a human being, with distance run measured in seconds. The research results show that the average time is 4.86s when measured with a timing system, and 5.17 when measured with an electronic stopwatch. All of this indicates that when students are measured and subsequently assessed with an electronic stopwatch, the results would be weaker and the grade lower. Conclusion: Modern instrumentation should be used to measure speed in physical education and sports classes in order to improve objectivity and accuracy.
Series on Biomechanics, Vol.40, No. 1 (2026), 44-50
DOI: 10.7546/SB.01.06.2026
Keywords: assessment; motor qualities; stopwatch; students; timing gates system
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| Date published: 2026-03-23
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