A Method by Which to Assess the Scalability of Field-Based Fitness Tests of Cardiorespiratory Fitness Among Schoolchildren

Abstract

Previous research has reported the validity and reliability of a range of field-based tests of children’s cardiorespiratory fitness. These two criteria are critical in ensuring the integrity and credibility of data derived through such tests. However, the criterion of scalability has received little attention. Scalability determines the degree to which tests developed on small samples in controlled settings might demonstrate real-world value, and is of increasing interest to policymakers and practitioners. The present paper proposes a method by which the scalability of cardiorespiratory field-based tests suitable for school-aged children might be assessed. We developed an algorithm to estimate scalability based on a six-component model; delivery, evidence of operating at scale, effectiveness, costs, resource requirements and practical implementation. We tested the algorithm on data derived through a systematic review of research that has used relevant fitness tests. A total of 229 studies that had used field based cardiorespiratory fitness tests to measure children’s fitness were identified. Initial analyses indicated that the 5-min run test did not meet accepted criteria for reliability, whilst the 6-min walk test likewise failed to meet the criteria for validity. Of the remainder, a total of 28 studies met the inclusion criteria, 22 reporting the 20-m shuttle-run and seven the 1-mile walk/run. Using the scalability algorithm we demonstrate that the 20-m shuttle run test is substantially more scalable than the 1-mile walk/run test, with tests scoring 34/48 and 25/48, respectively. A comprehensive analysis of scalability was prohibited by the widespread non-reporting of data, for example, those relating to cost-effectiveness. Of all sufficiently valid and reliable candidate tests identified, using our algorithm the 20-m shuttle run test was identified as the most scalable. We hope that the algorithm will prove useful in the examination of scalability in either new data relating to existing tests or in data pertaining to new tests.

Heart rate, energy expenditure, and affective responses from children participating in trampoline park sessions compared with traditional extra-curricular sports clubs

“…1,2 The poor health associated with low levels of PA has an adverse effect on the quality of life, and overall development of children's academic, social and physical skills. 3 Furthermore, it may predispose them to poor health later on in life. 3 Increasing levels of PA is likely to be key in averting childhood obesity and the preventable diseases that develop as a result.…”

“…3 Furthermore, it may predispose them to poor health later on in life. 3 Increasing levels of PA is likely to be key in averting childhood obesity and the preventable diseases that develop as a result. 4 Indeed, the promotion of PA to improve the health of the younger population is a public health priority.…”

Informative indices of physical and functional state of young men during the process of adaptation to learning

“…for estimating the isokinetic force [ 57], to evaluate the strength qualities -a long jump from the place [58], to assess the state of the cardiorespiratory system -shuttle run on 20 meters [59]. Functional state and operability.…”

One Year Surveillance of Body Mass Index and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Primary School Children in North West England and the Impact of School Deprivation Level

“…Cross-sectional data and metaanalyses have demonstrated rapid secular decline in CRF globally of around 0.36% per annum increasing in magnitude since 1970 [8]. Whilst public health agencies encourage novel interventions to increase childhood PA, widespread lack of routine health data hampers evaluation of their impact [9]. Indeed, the UK Chief Medical Officer has stated, "The introduction of a standardised school based fitness assessment in England may have multiple benefits that extend beyond the benefits for the individual" [10].…”

“…Though there are currently programmes examining anthropometric measures in children in the UK, there is a lack of CRF testing in primary schools. Considering the importance of CRF, recent scoping work highlighted that it can be measured in schools in a simple scalable way using the 20mSRT [9]. In light of this and the seasonal variation seen in CRF, in addition to the current lack of research examining the impact of deprivation upon CRF, the current study had the following aims:…”