VIII.4. Fitness Test Systems

Many tests can be used for measuring and assessing our fitness. They reflect and show how fit and healthy we are and if we consider these data and outcomes as feedbacks about our life style it helps us setting realistic aims to be able to change. It started in 1970s in Hungary when professionals started working on methods that measured young adults’ and children’s health and their physical state and condition. The primary aim was to compile a set of complex tests so that each segment and factor could be examined separately. The systems contain tests measuring and assessing aerobic fitness features, static and dynamic muscle force, stamina and velocity and flexibility as well as balancing capacity. These tests applied antromometrical methods and sometimes they were completed with the examination of physiological traits and questionnaires, which collected data about ways of life and nutrition.

The Hungarian Ministry of Culture and Education decided in 1996 that “twice a year all the school children’s physical condition should be evaluated and measured”. Therefore it has become crucial to set up the unified criteria of quality insurance that can be applied nationwide. Professional debates have erupted regarding the types of tests. Finally three specific test systems have been opted for, that is Arday-Farmosy, Eurofit and Hungarofit. Trainers and PE teachers have the right to use one test out of the three. In 2001 the Ministry of Culture and Education suggested the application of Eurofit and Hungarofit, which contain detailed rules, descriptions instructions and softwares. More than 80% of the Hungarian institutes chose the motor test systems of Hungarofit and Mini Hunagrofit. Later most of the Hungarian PE teachers decided to apply for the Hungarofit test system. The reason for opting for Hungarofit test system was that it is more objective and authentic than the Eurofit method. It also makes possible to evaluate physiology factors and intends to map up school children’s life style habits.

Hungarofit and Mini Hungarofit are considered child-friendly motor test systems. Recently the Hungarian Student Sports Associations has developed a new test in collaboration with the American Cooper Institute. In 2013 they attempted to compile a test witch would be motivating and stimulating for children and assisted in building an infrastructure for full deployment of a national fitness student program. The National Fitness Student Test, NETFIT, was based on the Hungarian professionals’ experience. Since 2014/2015 this test has been used to measure children’s and young adult’s physical fitness by the Hungarian elementary and high schools.