Two-Thirds of Students Fail State Physical Fitness Test
More than two in three California public school students tested for physical fitness failed to meet state standards, according to the California Physical Fitness Test results released Thursday by the Department of Education, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports
The report measured how well fifth-, seventh- and ninth-graders performed in six areas:
- Cardiovascular endurance;
- Body fat percentage;
- Abdominal strength and endurance;
- Trunk strength and flexibility;
- Upper body strength and endurance; and
- Overall flexibility.
The report found that 27.1% of fifth-graders met the state's fitness standards, as did 30.9% of seventh-graders and 30.1% of ninth-graders (Lieberman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12/7).
Compared to 2006, the scores increased about 2% statewide for fifth-graders, 1% for seventh-graders and 3% for ninth-graders (Hernandez, Ventura County Star, 12/7).
The results come amid nationwide attention to the growing rate of childhood obesity, the Los Angeles Daily News reports. About 15% of U.S. children are considered obese and at risk of problems ranging from diabetes to high blood pressure, according to the Daily News (Sheppard, Los Angeles Daily News, 12/7). This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.