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Virginia's Wellness-Related Fitness Test
Physical fitness assessment is most effective when it is part of a comprehensive health and physical education program that supports assessment with educational and motivational information. The success of the program depends on the enthusiasm and knowledge of physical educators and other youth leaders.
Virginia students in grades 4 through 10 are required to be tested on The Virginia Wellness-Related Fitness Test (VWRFT) at least twice during the school year. If a school division offers an 11 and/or 12 grade elective health and physical education course, these students' fitness the data should also be reported.
There is NO LIMIT TO THE NUMBER OF TIMES students may be assessed on each test item. The student's best score for each test item is the one reported on the data collection form (Appendix B). Please use the standard age /grade level (Appendix B) to determine accomplishment level.
MUSCLE STRENGTH, ENDURANCE, AND FLEXIBILITY
Tests of muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility are combined into one broad fitness category to determine the status of the musculoskeletal system. It is equally important to have strong muscles that can work forcefully over a period of time and are adequately flexible to allow full range of motion at the joint. Musculoskeletal injuries many times result from muscle imbalance at a specific joint; the muscles on one side may be much stronger than the opposition muscles or may have inadequate flexibility to allow complete motion or sudden motion to occur.
It is important to remember that the specificity of training is applicable to the development of musculoskeletal strength, endurance, and flexibility. The movements included in these test items are only a sampling of the many ways that the body is required to move and adjust during physical activity.
The upper body and the abdominal/trunk region have been selected as areas for testing because of their perceived relationship to maintaining functional health and correct posture, thereby reducing possibilities of future low back pain and restrictions in independent living.
Although most students will not have weaknesses sufficient to cause current problems it is important to educate them regarding the importance of muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility in preventing problems as adults. It is especially important to make students aware of correct postural alignment and body mechanics in the event that they are developing scoliosis - a potential health problem for teenage youth. The school nurse, a physician, or a physical therapist are good sources for information and treatment.