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1-Mile Walk Test

The 1-Mile Walk Test requires the participant to walk one mile in the quickest possible time, and using post exericse heart rate to estimate VO2max. This is a walking test of aerobic fitness which is an alternative to the PACER test for FitnessGram participants. See also the description of the other alternative the 1-mile run test, and the similar Rockport Walk Test.



test purpose: This test measures aerobic fitness

equipment required: stopwatch, marked 1 mile track or path on level ground with firm and smooth surface (e.g. athletics track), marker cones, heart rate monitor (optional), recording sheets.

pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such name, age, height, body weight, gender, test conditions (weather, running surface). Measure and mark out the course using cones. See more details of pre-test procedures.

procedure: The aim of this test is to complete a 1-mile course in the shortest possible time, while maintaining a constant walking pace the entire distance. At the start, all participants are to line up behind the starting line. On the command ‘go,’ the clock will start, and the athletes begin running at their own pace. At the conclusion of the walk, each person should measure a 15-second heart rate count. Heart rate can be measured using the manual method or using a heart rate monitor (more information on measuring heart rate). The walking time and the heart rate are recorded. If using a heart rate monitor, the student can record their own time, and the last heart rate recorded during the walk is used for the walking heart rate score.

scoring: The total time to complete the course is recorded for each participant, in minutes and seconds. Walk time and 15-second heart rate are entered in the FITNESSGRAM software. Estimated VO2max is calculated using the Rockport Fitness Walking Test equation.

target population: This test is designed for students aged 13 and older since it hasn't been validated with younger samples.

advantages:

disadvantages: Practice and pacing are required to ensure a representative score, and performance on this test can be affected greatly by motivation.

comments: The procedures listed above may differ slightly from the official description as used for FitnessGram. Please refer to documents from these sources for exact protocols.



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