The Multidimensional Structure of Physical Fitness: Invariance over Gender and Age

This investigation extends the factor analytic approach pioneered by Fleishman (1964) by incorporating subsequent developments in the application of confirmatory factor analysis and the physical fitness literature. Specifically, it tests the ability of an a priori factor structure of physical fitness to fit (i.e., account for) data based on 25 indicators of fitness (field exercises, technical measures, and laboratory measures) for 2,817 boys and girls aged 9, 12, and 15. An eight-factor (Cardiovascular Endurance, Explosive/Dynamic Strength, Static Strength, Flexibility/Joint Mobility, Blood Pressure, Lung Function, Body Girth, and Skinfold) model derived from previous research fit the data well for each of the six age/gender groups, considered separately. Based on tests of factorial invariance, factor loadings and factor correlations were reasonably invariant across the six groups. This important finding indicates that all 25 indicators are equally valid for boys and girls aged 9, 12, and 15 and that the multidimensional structure of physical fitness generalizes over gender and age.