Fitness Testing in Children

Abstract

Physical fitness testing has endured several evolutionary changes. The most recent trend is to use health-related rather than motor-performance test items. Physical fitness is currently described in terms of cardiorespiratory endurance, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance and flexibility. The use of criterion-referenced standards that specify the acceptable level of fitness conducive to health has been proposed. Physical educators have begun to expand the scope of fitness testing, and recognize the need for programs that teach children the basic concepts of health and fitness and how to influence present and future health status through physical activity. The purpose of this paper is to present an historical account of youth fitness testing, provide insight into the attitudes, problems and controversies that have encompassed this subject, and demonstrate how these have influenced the rationale of the tests. Results illustrate current problem areas and provide useful data for future investigators.