An Empirical Analysis of the Physical Aptitude Exam as a Predictor of Performance on the Physical Readiness Test
Abstract
The Physical Aptitude Exam, administered to candidates in the Naval Academy admissions process to measure physical aptitude, consists of pullups for men or the flexed arm hang for women, a 300-yard shuttle run, a standing longiump, and a kneeling basketball throw. The Physical Readiness Test, administered semi-annually to all naval personnel including midshipmen, consists of modified situps, pushups, and a 1.5-mile run. The purpose of this research is to determine if the Physical Aptitude Exam predicts performance on the Physical Readiness Test. Naval Academy midshipmen data from the classes of 2002 and 2003 are analyzed to determine if the Physical Aptitude Exam, taken sometime during the application process, predicts performance on the Physical Readiness Test taken during the fall semester of the midshipman's plebe year. This study uses logit and linear regression analysis to identify two significant explanatory variables; pullups/flexed arm hang and shuttle run, which predict Physical Readiness Test performance. Recognizing the factors that predict performance on the Physical Readiness Test may not only increase the number of midshipmen who pass the Naval Academy's fitness test, but also identify candidates at risk of failing the Physical Readiness Test when they become midshipmen.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA379544
Entities
People
- Robert W. Patrick Jr
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School