NSU Health and Kinesiology Department to lead Oklahoma fitness assessment modification

NSU faculty will apply current exercise science research to Oklahoma’s statewide fitness assessment

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University’s (NSU) Department of Health and Kinesiology has been awarded a state contract by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) to lead the modification of the Oklahoma Presidential Fitness Test.

The Presidential Fitness Test provides schools with an opportunity to assess important components of health-related physical fitness, including cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility and body composition. The assessment provides schools with information that can help physical educators monitor student fitness and guide instruction.

Through this state partnership, NSU faculty will review current scientific evidence and existing fitness assessment practices to identify appropriate modifications to the assessment protocols. Particular attention will be given to ensuring the assessments are practical for Oklahoma schools to administer and can accommodate the diverse abilities and needs of students.

Department Chair of Health and Kinesiology Dr. MooSong Kim said the project represents an opportunity to connect current exercise science with the practical needs of physical educators and students across Oklahoma.

“Our goal is to modify the assessment to better reflect current scientific evidence and advances in exercise science,” Kim said. “We want to make the assessment more accessible and inclusive while maintaining meaningful standards. At the same time, the assessment needs to be practical for schools to administer and meaningful as an educational tool that supports student learning and development.”

The project also provides opportunities for NSU faculty to apply their research in a statewide setting while strengthening the university’s partnership with Oklahoma schools and educators.

NSU President Rodney Hanley emphasized the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and state agencies in supporting the health and development of Oklahoma students.

"By combining our university's scientific research with the everyday expertise of Oklahoma educators, we are creating an assessment system that truly supports student growth," Hanley said. "It is an honor for NSU to lead an effort that will positively impact the health and quality of life for students across our state for years to come."

For more information about the NSU Department of Health and Kinesiology, visit https://academics.nsuok.edu/healthkinesiology/default.aspx.

###