Units of Fitness
How is fitness measured?
Strength
Strength is most often measured by the amount of weight lifted or moved. This may be in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs).
It is also measure by the one repetition maximum (1RM) - a measurement of the greatest load (kg) that can be fully moved (lifted, pushed, or pulled) once without failure or injury.
Speed
Speed is usually measured by a given distance over a unit of time. For example, miles per hour (mph) or kilometres per hour (km/h).
Stamina
Stamina is often measured in units of time. For example, a specific number of seconds, minutes, hours, or even days.
Another measure is repetitions. For example, the push-up test measures stamina via repeated push-ups, performed for a duration of 60 seconds or until failure without any break in proper form.
Suppleness
Suppleness is usually measured by the range of motion of the various joints. This is usually measured in degrees using a goniometer.
Another basic measure is for a person to flex the hip and touch the toes.
Skill
Skill is usually measured according to a specific sport or activity.
In boxing, skill is ‘measured’ or judged according to:
The number of times the knuckle-end of the glove hits the front or sides of the opponent’s head or upper body. This applies to Olympic boxing.
Clean punches, effective aggressiveness, ring generalship, and defence. This applies to professional boxing.
As an alternative to competitive bouts, boxers may also measure their skills through sparring, the motions of boxing without landing heavy blows, as a form of training.
