The FitnessGram PACER Test is a multistage aerobic capacity test that progressively gets more difficult as it continues. The test is used to measure a student's aerobic capacity as part of the FitnessGram assessment. Students run back and forth as many times as they can, each lap signaled by a beep sound. The test get progressively faster as it continues until the student reaches their max lap score.
Students embark on a rhythmic back-and-forth run, responding to each beep that signals the pace. As the test progresses, the intervals shorten, demanding more speed and stamina. This engaging challenge continues until the student reaches their peak lap score, painting a comprehensive picture of their aerobic capacity.
FitnessGram's story is one of passion, innovation, and commitment. Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper, the visionary "Father of Aerobics," established The Cooper Institute and, with it, FitnessGram – the first student fitness report card. Our journey began in 1982, and since then, we've been pioneers in health-related fitness assessment, touching the lives of over 10 million students in more than 30,000 schools. Our robust assessments, grounded in the scientifically established Healthy Fitness Zone® standards, have become the cornerstone of physical education programs nationwide.