National Children and Youth Fitness Study (NCYFS)

· Conducted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Offices for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

NCYFS I (1984) Ages 10-17 N=8,800

NCYFS II (1987) Ages 6-9 N=4,853

Study included:

1. Five Item Fitness Test

· Bent knee sit up

· Chin up

· 1 mile run/walk

· Sit and reach

· Skin fold measurements

2. Questionnaire on physical activities, nutrition, television viewing

Findings:

· Significant increase in percent body fat since 1960

· Poor performance on 1 mile test which assesses cardio respiratory fitness

· 36.3% participated in daily physical education school programs

· 50% out of the 36.3% participated in vigorous physical activity