Fitness testing in schools internationally and locally: A systematic review

Abstract

Physical fitness testing (PFT) in schools has been conducted over the past 50 years to monitor the fitness levels of schooling children and adolescents. This review will provide an overview of the various PFT available and compare implementation variations in different regions: United States (US), Europe, Canada, Australia and Asia. In addition, comparisons will be made regarding the fitness components assessed as well as the choice of test items. Most PFT assessed health-related components of fitness: cardiorespiratory endurance, musculoskeletal strength and endurance, flexibility, body composition and agility. With exceptions from Japan and China. PFT were mostly criterion-referenced and tested for validity and reliability. The analysis of PFT has highlighted several changes over the years and reiterated the need for continual growth in research to better PFT for use in schools.