Knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes about physical fitness assessment among physical exercise practitioners: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes about physical fitness assessment among practitioners of regular physical exercise. Methods: A total of 400 practitioners of regular physical exercise participated in the study. A self-administered 12-item survey was developed, including five questions on exercise experience and training characteristics, two on knowledge, one on perception, and four on attitude toward fitness assessments. Results: Most participants reported positive perceptions regarding the usefulness of physical fitness assessments, yet regular participation in such assessments was limited. Participants who had previously performed physical assessments or received guidance from a personal trainer demonstrated greater knowledge and more favorable attitudes toward assessment. Statistically significant associations were found between perception of assessment usefulness and guidance by a personal trainer (p = 0.039, Cramer’s V = 0.16 [small]) and having performed physical assessments (p < 0.001, Cramer’s V = 0.35 [medium]). Knowledge about the importance of physical assessments for monitoring training effects was also associated with training experience (p = 0.023, Cramer’s V = 0.18 [small]), personal trainer guidance (p = 0.011, Cramer’s V = 0.11 [small]), and previous performance of physical assessments (p < 0.001, Cramer’s V = 0.71 [large]). Conclusions: The present study showed that participants who have training or physical assessment experience presented a positive perception about physical fitness assessment and that knowledge of physical fitness assessment is associated with better perceptions and attitudes. Practice implications: Personal trainers play a crucial role in providing assessment-related guidance, which can improve training methods and enhance clients’ awareness of the importance of fitness monitoring.