Fitness Testing

AAHPERD Agility Test

The AAHPERD Agility Test is a test of agility and dynamic balance for the elderly, which is part of the AAHPERD Functional Fitness Protocol. See also the Up and Go agility test also designed to test agility in the elderly.

purpose: This test measures speed, agility and balance while moving.
equipment required: stopwatch, straight back or folding chair (about 17 inches/44 cm high), cone markers, measuring tape, area clear of obstacles.
description / procedure: The timed agility test is conducted on 31-ft course marked by traffic cones. The participant starts from a seated position. The subject is required to rise from chair, walk around a cone to the right, return to be fully seated on the chair, rise and walk around another cone the same distance to the left of the chair. One trial consisted of two complete circuits of the agility course. This course is completed as quickly and safely as possible.

target population: the aged population which may not be capable of performing traditional agility fitness tests.
comments: For best results, practice the test once, and then perform it twice. A cane or walker may be used if that is the usual mode of walking. Push-off from the chair is allowed.