Which assessment in the PRT is specifically designed to measure cardiovascular fitness?

The 1.5-mile run is specifically designed to measure cardiovascular fitness within the Physical Readiness Test (PRT). Cardiovascular fitness refers to the ability of the heart, lungs, and muscles to work together efficiently during prolonged physical activity, and running is a common and effective way to assess this capability.

When participants complete a 1.5-mile run, it provides a clear indicator of their aerobic capacity, endurance, and overall heart health. The time taken to finish the run showcases how well the cardiovascular system is functioning under duress, making it a direct measure of cardio fitness.

In contrast, the other assessments serve different purposes. Push-ups focus on upper body muscular strength and endurance, curl-ups evaluate core strength, and body composition relates to the ratio of fat to lean mass in the body. None of these specifically assess the cardiovascular system's efficiency and stamina in the same way that the 1.5-mile run does.