Reactive Shuttle

Athletes showcase their rapid directional changes in the Reactive Shuttle test, a key component of the NBA Combine's fitness evaluation. Dashr's technology ensures precise measurement, capturing every quick move with accuracy.

Reactive shuttle demo.

Drill Instructions

The reactive shuttle test is part of a fitness testing protocol for the NBA Combine – but can be utilized by many sports. The players complete an agility circuit, first running to the right or left direction in response to a stimulus (light). This drill uses a stationary start and requires 1 timing gate and 2 React modules.

Step-By-Step Instructions

  • Install batteries in each laser and React Module you plan to use.
  • Install/open the Dashr app on your phone or tablet. (Create an account here if you have not already)
  • Register each laser/React in the app – Navigate to the “Device Registration” button at the bottom, power on the lasers one at a time and select them from the “Available” list and assign them a number. Write that number on your device. (This only has to be done the first time you use the laser with this phone/tablet)
  • Return to the home menu and select Reactive Shuttle drill.
  • Screw the laser onto a taller tripod, positioned so that the beam is around hip height.
  • Screw a reflector onto a matching tripod and position the laser and reflectors across from each other (~6 ft) to create a line to pass through.
  • With the laser on, select the appropriate laser from the drop-down menu and press the “Connect” button. If it does not work the first time, repeat.
  • Screw each React module onto a taller tripod, positioned as high as you would like.
  • Similar to the laser, select the React module from the drop-down menu and connect both the left and right lights. If it does not work the first time, repeat.
  • Once all devices are connected, press the “Start Testing” button.
  • Check in the appropriate athlete (details here) – optional.
  • With QuickRun off (option in settings – this is prefered) you will see “Set” and “Reset” buttons to give you control of when a test starts. Press “Set” once the athlete is ready.
  • Now you wait… Either the left or right light will turn on between 3-7 sec after pressing the “Set” button. Random time, and random direction.
  • When the light turns on, an arrow will indicate the direction and a reaction time (time from when the light turned on to when the athlete left the gate) is presented.
  • Coming back through the gate will give the first split time, then back through it again will give the finish. Note that the reaction time is included in these times.
  • Note that the NBA Combine typically has this set-up on the key, where the athlete performs this shuttle tagging the sidelines of the key. Other sports, such as hockey, soccer, or football might set this up like a typical 5-10-5 with a reaction component.
  • Press “Reset” to clear the time for the next athlete, or stop the drill early.
NBA Set-up