Physical fitness of students in British Columbia: a criterion-referenced evaluation

In 1979, the Ministry of Education completed a comprehensive study on the status of physical education in British Columbia. The purpose of this paper is to present the findings of this assessment, with respect to the physical fitness of public school children at the end of primary (grade 3), intermediate (grade 7), and secondary (grade 11) levels. Approximately 3000 students were tested on measures of cardiovascular endurance, static and dynamic muscular endurance, static and explosive strength and flexibility. Separate panels, one to determine "acceptable ranges of performance" and one to interpret the findings, were established by the provincial Ministry. Evaluation was of a criterion-referenced nature and ratings of "weak", "marginally satisfactory", "satisfactory", "very satisfactory", and "strong" were assigned. The results of the study indicate that fitness levels of both sexes, at the grade 3 and 7 levels, as well as the grade 11 females, were generally rated "weak" to "marginally satisfactory". "Satisfactory" ratings were recorded for the grade 11 males. Variables of particular concern were those of cardiovascular endurance and static muscle endurance. It was concluded that B.C. students, while comparing favourably with other provincial, national and international samples, fell well below the "acceptable ranges" set by the provincial evaluative panels.