The FITNESSGRAM
The objective of the FITNESSGRAM is to increase parental awareness of
children's fitness levels by developing an easy way for physical education
teachers to report the results of physical fitness assessments. It establishes a
baseline from which students can set goals and check progress. It also allows
students to experience and better understand the components of healthrelated
fitness.
FITNESSGRAM is more effective than other available physical fitness tests
for three reasons. First, it compares scores to carefully researched and
developed health standards rather than to national averages. Second, it
emphasizes measures of health-related physical fitness instead of performance
of physical or sport-related skills. Third, it goes beyond mere measurement to
recommend individualized physical activity program options that will help
students in the areas where they need improvement. (FITNESSGRAM, 1999)
Participants receive objective, personalized feedback and positive
reinforcement which are vital to changing behavior and serve as a
communications link between teachers and parents.
FITNESSGRAM Assessment
FITNESSGRAM is a health related physical fitness assessment. Each of the
test items were selected to assess important aspects of a student's health
related fitness, not skill or agility. Students are compared not to each other,
but to health fitness standards, carefully established for each age and gender
that indicate good health.
What is the FITNESSGRAM?
The FITNESSGRAM is a series of health-related fitness activities that assess
physical fitness levels in children.
Why do it?
Students should learn to self-assess their fitness levels and interpret the
results. This will help them learn about fitness concepts, plan and set goals for
fitness and serve as a motivational tool to remain active on their own.
How will I know if my child is fit?
Each student will receive a computerized printout of their test results. These
results will be used as a learning tool for physical fitness. Students will
interpret the data and write down their short term and long term goals. This
test will be administered again in April/May to compare data.
What fitness areas do the activities test?
Cardio respiratory (Cardiovascular) Endurance:
PACER Test: The Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run is a
multistage fitness test adapted from the 20 meter shuttle run test. The test is
progressive; it is easy at the beginning and gets harder each stage. Set to
music, this test is a valid, fun alternative to the customary distance run test for
measuring aerobic capacity. The PACER is recommended for all ages. The
children have a good time while learning how to pace. (FITNESSGRAM, 1999)
ONE MILE RUN: complete one mile in the fastest possible time, either walking or running.
- purpose: this test measures aerobic endurance, as a measure of health and an important component of many sporting activities.
- equipment required: stopwatch, smooth and level marked 1 mile track, paper and pencil.
- description: The purpose of this test is to complete one mile in the fastest possible time. After the purpose of the test and instructions are given, the participants begin running on the count "Ready? Go!". If they desire, walking may be interspersed with running, however, they should be encouraged to cover the distance in as short a time as possible.
Muscular Endurance:
Curl-up Test: For the curl-up test, the students complete as many curl-ups as
they can at a specified pace (maximum 75). The curl-up has been selected
because it does not involve the assistance of the hip flexor muscles and
minimizes compression in the spine, when compared to a full sit-up with the feet
held. Strength and endurance of the abdominals are important in promoting
good posture and correct pelvic alignment. (FITNESSGRAM, 1999)
Muscular Strength:
Push-up Test: The push-up to an elbow angle of 90 degrees is the recommended
test for upper body strength and endurance. The PACER test CD contains a
recorded cadence of 20 push-ups per minute (1 push-up every 3 seconds). The
tests ends if a student: 1- stops to rest; 2-does not achieve a 90 degree angle
with elbows on each rep; 3-does not maintain correct body position; 4-does not
extend arms fully. (FITNESSGRAM, 1999)
Flexibility:
Trunk Lift Test: Students lie prone (face down) with their hands under their
thighs. The student lifts the upper body off the floor in a slow, controlled
movement to a maximum of 12 inches. Trunk extensor strength and flexibility
are important for lower back health, especially vertebral alignment.
Musculoskeletal fitness of the abdominals, hamstrings and back extensors work
in concert to maintain posture and low back health. (FITNESSGRAM, 1999)
Back Saver Sit and Reach Test: The sit and reach measures predominantly the
flexibility of the hamstring muscles. Both the right and left sides of the body
are tested separately to discourage hyperextention. Normal hamstring
flexibility allows rotation of the pelvis in forward bending movements and
posterior tilting of the pelvis for proper sitting.
Shoulder Stretch Test: The shoulder stretch test is a simple test of upper
body flexibility. It is useful in educating the students about the importance of
flexibility in all areas of the body. The student reaches with the right hand
over the right shoulder and down the back as if to pull up a zipper. At the same
time she/he places her/his left hand behind her back and reaches up, trying to
touch the fingers of the right hand. This is also done with the opposite hand.
www.fitnessgram.net
http://www1.pgcps.org/uploadedFiles/Schools_and_Centers/High_Schools/Bladensburg/Academics/fitnessgramflyer.pdf
Study guide
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