This study compared functional fitness scores of American and Italian older adults on the AAHPERD test battery for adults over 60 years old. Sedentary participants (N = 186, age 60–79 years) undertook the 6 AAHPERD test items: Between American and Italian men, no statistically significant difference was found for coordination and endurance. American men scored better on flexibility and strength, whereas Italian men scored better on body mass index (BMI) and agility. Between American and Italian women, no statistically significant difference was found for BMI and agility. American women scored better on coordination and endurance, whereas Italian women scored better on flexibility and strength. The data suggest that the AAHPERD test battery is an appropriate tool for assessing and comparing functional fitness levels of older adults in different societies.
Comparison between American and Italian Older Adult Performances on the AAHPERD Functional Fitness Test Battery
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Capranica and Figura are with the University of Motor Sciences of Rome, 00194 Rome, Italy. Tiberi is with the Institute of Sport Science, 00197 Rome, Italy. Osness is with the Department of HSES at the University of Kansas, Lawrence, KA 66045.
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