Physical Fitness Test (PFT)

Since 1996, California Education Code (EC) Section 60800 has required that each district administer a state-designated physical fitness test (PFT) to all students in grades five, seven, and nine. Each year, the PFT is administered between February and May. The test designated by the State Board of Education is the Fitnessgram®. The Fitnessgram®, developed by The Cooper Institute, provides criterion-referenced standards to evaluate fitness. These standards represent minimum levels of fitness associated with those health and physical characteristics that offer protection against diseases resulting from physical inactivity. Achievement of the fitness standards is based upon a score falling in the Healthy Fitness Zone (HFZ) for each of the six fitness areas. The HFZ represents minimal levels of satisfactory achievement on the tasks. The goal is for students to achieve the HFZ for all six fitness areas of the physical fitness test.

1. Aerobic Capacity

• PACER (Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run)
• One-Mile Run
• Walk Test (only for ages 13 or older)

2. Abdominal Strength and Endurance

• Curl-Up

3. Upper Body Strength and Endurance

• Push-Up
• Modified Pull-Up
• Flexed-Arm Hang

4. Body Composition (Discontinued for 2021-22)

• Skinfold Measurements
• Body Mass Index

5. Trunk Extensor Strength and Flexibility

• Trunk Lift

6. Flexibility

• Back-Saver Sit and Reach
• Shoulder Stretch