Connecticut Physical Fitness Assessment
The Physical Fitness Assessment is made up of four different tests that each student will complete to the best of their ability. The four tests are:
1. Modified Sit and Reach
The objective of this test is to measure the flexibility of the lower back and hamstrings. The modified sit and reach test causes less forward rotation of the pelvis, which reduces disc compression in the lower back.
2. Partial Curl-ups
The partial curl-up measures abdominal strenght and endurance. Abdominal fitness is important to good health because low levels are associated with bad posture and lower back pain in later years.
3. Right-Angle Push-Ups
The objective of this test is to measure upper-body strenght and endurance. The right-angle push-up is recommended as a test of upper-body strength and endurance. Muscle fitness is required for people of all ages in order to perform daily living and recreational activities with vigor and undue fatigue.
4. One-Mile Run/Walk
The objective of the test is to measure cardiorespiratory or aerobic endurance. The one-mile run/walk is a good indicator of the ability of the circulatory and respiratory systems to supply oxygen to functioning muscles, in other words the capacity to perform activities using large muscle groups over an extended period of time. The importance of cardiorespiratory fitness lies in the fact that heart disease is a leading cause of death in our society.