Texas Youth Fitness Study: a commentary.

When institutional testing is done well, there are many potential benefits; however, it is not without its negatives. The TYEP is an example of large scale institutional testing that yielded more than a few benefits as described in this supplement. However, results reported some problems as well. We have learned much from the TYEP, including what works and what does not when conducting large-scale fitness testing projects. Questions that need answers include: (a) How often must similar testing be done to achieve the intended goals? (b) Can alternative forms of testing be used to meet our goals? (c) How can we improve the next institutional testing to accentuate the positives and diminish the negatives? (d) How do we acquire the necessary funding and adequate teacher support for future institutional testing? and (e) How can we best obtain the necessary funding and support for quality physical education, including already approved but unfunded mandates? Support for quality physical education is necessary if we are to increase youth activity levels, improve youth fitness, and help reduce the risk for childhood obesity-all important goals of the TYEP.