Thursday, 19 Sep 2024

Scout’s Personal Fitness Merit Badge

The Personal Fitness Merit Badge is an achievement earned by Scouts in the United States who actively prioritize their physical health and understand the importance of maintaining a fit lifestyle. This badge is a requirement for the prestigious Eagle Scout Award. While fitness testing is a component of the Personal Fitness Merit Badge, this article will focus solely on the fitness tests involved, leaving out other details included in official Scout documents.

Merit Badge Requirements

As part of the Personal Fitness Merit Badge, Scouts are required to complete tests in areas such as aerobic fitness, flexibility, muscular strength, and body composition, as outlined in the Personal Fitness merit badge pamphlet. The results of these tests should be recorded, and areas that need improvement should be identified.

  • Aerobic Fitness Test – Scouts have the option to choose between the nine-minute run/walk test for distance or the one-mile run/walk. The goal is to cover the greatest distance or finish in the shortest time possible.
  • Strength Tests – Scouts can perform all three strength tests, but only the sit-up exercise and one other (either push-ups or pull-ups) are required.
  • Flexibility Test – The Sit and Reach test measures flexibility. Scouts must keep their knees flat on the floor and hold the stretch for 15 seconds. Four reps should be performed, and the last one should be recorded. Instructions for creating a sit and reach box can be found elsewhere.
  • Body Composition Tests – Various body girth measurements are taken to assess body composition.
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About Merit Badges

Merit Badges are awarded to Scouts who complete the requirements for each badge. The Personal Fitness Merit Badge, along with others, should be proudly worn on the Scout’s sash.

Related References

  • MAXWELL, J., BURNS, R. D., & BRUSSEAU, T. A. (2017). Effects of the Boy Scouts of America Personal Fitness Merit Badge on Cardio-Metabolic Risk, Health Related Fitness and Physical Activity in Adolescent Boys. International Journal of Exercise Science, 10(7), 964-976.
  • Arena S, Riley L, Schilz G, et al. (April 25, 2018) Fitness Measures Among Boy Scouts Completing the Personal Fitness Merit Badge. Cureus 10(4): e2538. doi:10.7759/cureus.2538

Related Pages

  • More about Fitness Testing Children.
  • Poll: What age is appropriate to start fitness testing children?

FAQs

Q: What is the Personal Fitness Merit Badge?
A: The Personal Fitness Merit Badge is an accomplishment earned by Scouts who actively prioritize their physical health and understand the requirements of leading a fit lifestyle.

Q: What tests are required for the Personal Fitness Merit Badge?
A: Scouts are required to complete tests in aerobic fitness, flexibility, muscular strength, and body composition as part of the Personal Fitness Merit Badge. These tests are outlined in the merit badge pamphlet.

Summary

The Personal Fitness Merit Badge is an important achievement for Scouts who prioritize their physical health. This badge requires Scouts to complete tests related to aerobic fitness, flexibility, muscular strength, and body composition. By successfully completing these tests, Scouts gain valuable knowledge and skills related to maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle. The Personal Fitness Merit Badge is just one of many badges that Scouts can earn as they progress in their scouting journey.

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