nitions present physical fitness as a multidimensional construct. While many earlier operational definitions of physical fitness included numerous motor performance capacities (e.g., coordination, balance, agility), most contemporary definitions view physical fitness as comprised of a small number of core components, each of which is known to determine one’s ability to perform certain types of demanding physical tasks. These core components include cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition. Collectively, these components have sometimes been referred to as “health-related physical fitness” (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1996). Table 4-1 presents definitions of each of these components of physical fitness; the table also provides a brief indication of the relationship of each component to physical performance and to health.

Because physical fitness has been conceptualized as a multidimensional construct comprised of several independent factors, comprehensive tests of physical fitness typically include multiple test items. Numerous test batteries have been developed for use in laboratory, quasi-