AJHE: American Journal of Health Education

A Qualitative Study of the Benefits and Challenges of Fitness Testing and Activity Monitoring in School; Interviews with School Staff in Southern California

– Simao Elias Luis

Background: School-based physical fitness testing (SB-PFT), though widely utilized, continues to be a topic of debate over its utility and feasibility.

Purpose: A qualitative study among K-12 school personnel elicited information about challenges to and recommendations for SB-PFT implementation and explored perceptions of activity monitoring as an alternative or supplement to SB-PFT.

Methods: Interviews conducted with 13 California public school personnel were transcribed and qualitatively analyzed to identify themes and select exemplary quotes.

Results: Whereas one-third of respondents were positively disposed toward SB-PFT, two-thirds were positively disposed toward activity monitoring. Thematic analysis yielded three benefits to SB-PFT and six challenges, compared to six benefits of activity monitoring and two challenges. The discrepancy was especially relevant to less active students.

Discussion: Participants were more optimistic about the use and importance of activity monitoring compared with SB-PFT. Activity monitoring as an alternative or supplement to SB-PFT deserves exploration.

Translation to Health Education Practice: This study yielded recommendations for implementing SB-PFT to promote youth physical activity. Recommendations include conducting multiple assessments during the school year, providing opportunities to practice the SB-PFT, and utilizing activity monitoring as an adjunct to SB-PFT. Teachers would benefit from clear guidelines for integrating physical activity monitoring into SB-PFT.