The validity generalization of distance run tests.

The validity generalization model was used to examine the generalizability of the validity of distance run tests as measures of cardiorespiratory function. A literature search was conducted to identify studies in which distance run test scores were correlated with VO2 max scores obtained from a stress test on a treadmill. The data base was limited to runs of at least one mile or 9 min and the VO2 max scores expressed as mL.kg-1.min-1. The concurrent validity of distance run tests was not shown to be generalizable across all situations. When the data were analyzed by gender, the validity of distance run tests was more generalizable for women than for men. In the analysis of test scores for boys and girls, the validities appeared to be generalizable, although the results should be interpreted with caution owing to small samples sizes.