RTS testing includes programs to ensure that athletes will not suffer another torn ACL. They do so by implementing physical tests that meaure time or distance to see if the muscles around the ACL are strong enough to support the person when they return to sports. This is not sufficient because it does not take into account movements that involve loading the ACL itself. There is also a lack of consideration of the quality of the movements the patient does as well as the mental side of the recovery, both which can be detrimental to the athlete's future health.

Many current performance tests rely on double leg drop vertical jumps, single leg hops, and cutting movements. When the patient is deemed recovered enough to complete those without much difficulty, they are cleared for sports again. 

Some other tests (not all of which are used or are taken into consideration) include:

• Tegner score (RTS readiness)

• Extension ROM 

• Flexion ROM

• Quadriceps index

• Average knee pain intensity

• IKDC (patient reported knee function questionnaire)

• TSK-11 (fear of reinjury)

While RTS is often expected by athletes, many do not end up doing so, and those who do have a high risk of having another ACL injury.

Passing a RTS performance test does not necessarily mean that one is good to go to compete in athletics because the cognitive side and actual ACL loading has not been incorporated into the rehab program.

As stated in the background section, even the most athletic people who have the highest end trainers and surgeons don't have high rates of return, especially not to the same degree.

However, for non-athletes, the testing is sufficient as they only have need for stablilty, ROM, and strength for everyday activities instead of athletic ones.