The most important fitness tests for children and adolescents have been identified by a group of international researchers.

Experts in 50 countries, including researchers at the University of Strathclyde, shared their opinions on the assessments which are most useful in assessing the physical fitness of young people aged between six and 18.

Many tests are in common use but, even when the same methods are deployed, there are often several variations to the protocol, making comparison of results difficult.

The survey aimed to reach a consensus on tests and protocols to be used globally in fitness surveillance and monitoring. It found that the most important tests include:

• the 20m shuttle run test, a test of aerobic capacity or cardiorespiratory fitness to see how long young people can run
• handgrip strength, which assesses each hand as indicator of maximal strength levels
• standing long jump, a test of lower body power to see how far young people can jump
• body mass index (BMI), an assessment to determine the level of weight status.

The research concluded that these fitness tests are not only among the most commonly used in the world but also have the strongest association with overall health

The study, led by the University of Grenada in Spain and the Public Health Agency of Canada, has been published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science.

Dr Kathryn Weston, a Senior Lecturer in Physical Activity and Health in Strathclyde and a partner in the study, said: “Physical fitness is a global issue, of equal importance in all nations, and so it is a practical measure to have a standardised set of assessments for children and adolescents.

It is always useful to compare the results of fitness studies, yet different approaches and protocols can lead to inconsistent or inaccurate results. A consensus on protocols will enable researchers to make comparisons more effectively and, crucially, will benefit young people worldwide.