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The validity generalization of distance run tests
M J Safrit1, M Glaucia Costa, L M Hooper
1University of Wisconsin, Madison.
Canadian Journal of Sport Sciences = Journal Canadien Des Sciences Du Sport
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Distance run tests assessing cardiorespiratory function are not universally valid. Their validity generalizes better for women than men, and for children, though caution is advised for youth due to small sample sizes.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cardiorespiratory function is a key health indicator.
- Distance run tests are commonly used to estimate cardiorespiratory fitness.
- VO2 max is the gold standard measure of cardiorespiratory function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the generalizability of distance run tests as measures of cardiorespiratory function.
- To determine if the validity of distance run tests is consistent across different populations and conditions.
Main Methods:
- A validity generalization model was employed.
- A literature search identified studies correlating distance run test scores with VO2 max.
- Data included runs of at least one mile or 9 minutes; VO2 max was in mL.kg-1.min-1.
Main Results:
- The concurrent validity of distance run tests was not generalizable across all situations.
- Validity was more generalizable for women compared to men.
- Validity appeared generalizable for boys and girls, but sample sizes were small.
Conclusions:
- Distance run tests may not be universally valid for assessing cardiorespiratory function.
- Gender and age influence the generalizability of distance run test validity.
- Further research with larger sample sizes is needed for pediatric populations.