Reliability, minimal detectable change, and standard error of measurement of functional tests for athletes : a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: Functional tests must be validated for the target population. It is also important that the professionals applying them know which tests are the most reliable. Some tests have a standard error of measurement (SEM), which needs to be considered, as does the minimal detectable change (MDC) used to quantitatively perceive clinical improvement. It is important to know the psychometric properties of a functional test to consider it suitable for its use. This study aims to synthesise values of psychometric properties of functional tests in validation studies for athletic or physically active populations. Methods: This systematic review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, SportDiscus and Cochrane in June 2025. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated by the Consensus-based Standards for Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) Risk of Bias checklist. Results: The final review included 49 studies. The study samples ranged from 11 to 243, totalling 1713 subjects. The mean age of the subjects studied ranged from 16.47 ± 0.51 to 59.40 ± 8.70 years. The reliability values verified by ICC ranged from 0.26 to 0.99. SEM and MDC values were delivered in percentages and absolute values. All studies evaluated using the COSMIN checklist were classified as “Inadequate.” Conclusion: Functional tests used to assess athletes generally have good reliability values. However, standardisation in the application is necessary. The training of professionals who administer the tests is essential for greater reliability. Furthermore, greater stabilisation of the subject being evaluated is necessary for strength tests to reduce compensations during the test. Level of evidence: I – Systematic review.