Validation of Distance Run Tests for Elementary School Children

Abstract

Abstract The validity of distance run tests was investigated using 2 strategies. A total of 17 different samples consisting of 866 boys and 803 girls enrolled in elementary school were administered the 50-yd dash and distance runs of 3, 6, 9, and 12 min in duration. The factor analysis established the construct validity of the distance runs and gave credence to the 9- and 12-min runs. Maximal oxygen uptake and the 9- and 12-min runs were administered to samples of 22 boys and 25 girls. Both distance run tests were significantly correlated with maximum oxygen uptake, but the 12-min test did not improve the concurrent validity over the 9-min test. Percentile norms for elementary school boys and girls were offered for the 9-min run.