Assessment of Motor Abilities and Physical Fitness in Youth in the Context of Talent Identification-OSF Test

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Nov 1;19(21):14303. doi: 10.3390/ijerph192114303.

Abstract

(1) Background: Physical fitness during childhood is an important indicator of current and future health status. Defining physical fitness levels is a key element of talent identification in the training of children and adolescents. It is also crucial in developing a sports career path. This study sought to validate a physical fitness test (OSF test) and to determine fitness norms for children and adolescents with a special focus on talent identification within its particular sub-tests of endurance, speed, strength and power. (2) Methods: A total of 27,187 athletes who participated in the 'Athletics for all' (AFA) programme were included in the analysis. Physical fitness was assessed using a validated OSF test (3 × 10 shuttle run, standing broad jump, 1 kg medicine ball overhead throw, 4-min run). (3) Results: Four key motor abilities (speed, power, strength and endurance) were assessed in children and adolescents. The OSF test was normalised, i.e., a reference frame in the form of centile charts was developed. (4) Conclusions: The centile charts developed for particular parts of the OSF test make it possible to interpret scores in particular motor sub-tests and, first and foremost, enable users to compare a given score with results obtained by their peers.

Keywords: OSF test; skill level; talent identification; testing; youth sports.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Exercise
  • Exercise Test / methods
  • Humans
  • Muscle Strength*
  • Physical Fitness
  • Sports*

Grants and funding

This research was funded by ABNS in Biala Podlaska—Project ‘Physical fitness and physique parameters of children and adolescents participating in the Athletics for All! in comparison with peers not participating in additional physical activity’ (PB/2/2022).