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Fitness reference values
6 fitness tests with their protocols, published reference values and primary sources — including the ones where no universal norm exists, and why.
Population reference values, not a fitness prescription. Start any new exercise carefully, and see a clinician about symptoms.
| Test | Source |
|---|---|
| Resting heart rate | American Heart Association |
| Cooper 12-minute run | Cooper KH, "A means of assessing maximal oxygen intake" (JAMA 1968); formula as published. |
| Push-ups | American College of Sports Medicine test description; Cooper Institute FITNESSGRAM |
| Plank hold | McGill SM, "Core training: evidence translating to better performance" (2010) |
| Grip strength | JAMAR test protocol; population reference values as reviewed in published handgrip normative studies |
| VO2max estimates | Kline GM et al., "Estimation of VO2max from a one-mile track walk" (Med Sci Sports Exerc 1987); Cooper 1968 |
Frequently asked questions
What is a good score on these tests?
For resting heart rate and the Cooper/VO2max formulas the published reference values are on the test pages. For push-ups, plank and grip this site does not print a single "good" number, because no universal norm table could be verified to a primary publication — and each test page explains exactly that.
Are these tests medical advice?
No. They are population reference values for general information. Symptoms — chest pain, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath — belong to a clinician, not to a norm table.
Why does this site refuse to print percentile tables?
Because most of the tables that circulate online are copies of copies. This site prints only values it can tie to a named publication; where it cannot, it says so instead of inventing one.
How do I use these tests?
Test the same way each time and watch your own trend. Your previous score is the comparison that matters most.
Measure, log, repeat
TempoLife keeps the trend: resting heart rate, workouts and recovery in one place, so the monthly re-test has context.