NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What is the defined score for "Excellent" in the YMCA 3-minute step-up test for men?

1. 79

2. 85

3. 128

4. 140

The correct answer is: 79

In the YMCA 3-minute step-up test, individuals step up and down on a bench for three minutes to measure their cardiovascular fitness level. The scores are based on the number of total heartbeats measured in one minute after completing the test. For men, a score of 79 is categorized as "Excellent." This benchmark indicates that individuals scoring at this level have a strong cardiovascular fitness level, reflecting a healthy heart and efficient oxygen consumption during physical activity. Achieving this score suggests that the individual is in great shape and capable of performing physical tasks without undue fatigue. Other scores fall within different categories, such as "Good," "Fair," or "Poor," which are associated with different heart rate recovery values. Understanding these categorizations is key for fitness professionals as they assess client fitness levels and develop appropriate exercise programs.