Status of field-based fitness testing in children and youth

This paper describes the history of youth fitness testing in the United Sta tes and the different fitness test batteries that are currently available. Validity and reliability of test items are reviewed and a description of ho w test results are interpreted is presented. Fitness testing for children a nd youth has undergone many changes over the past 3 decades. The tests used to assess the different components of fitness have evolved from a performa nce model to a model that considers health-related outcomes. Test interpret ation currently employs criterion-referenced standards in contrast to the n orm-referenced system of evaluation. Although some of the individual test i tems lack empirical data to verify that the test items provide a reasonable estimate of the fitness parameter, there is consensus on the health-relate d fitness components: cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength and endu rance, flexibility, and body composition. Data are also lacking that direct ly link fitness level in youth to health as an adult. Despite these limitat ions, fitness testing is of value to the teacher, researcher, child, and ca regiver. Test results may provide a measure of fitness level and identify a reas that need improvement, results to be tracked over time, an indication of risk for developing certain chronic diseases, and a teaching tool for te achers and students in comprehensive fitness education programs, (C) 2000 A merican Health Foundation and Academic Press.