J. Hearns

Validities of the Physical Estimation Scale in predicting running times.

Two studies were conducted with the purpose of examining the validity of the 12-item Physical Estimation Scale, developed by Safrit and Wood (1985), as a predictor of running performance. Physical Estimation Scale scores were not significantly related to running time at the 5-mi. distance but were significantly correlated with predicted and actual marathon finishing times.

Accuracy of estimations of body-frame size as a function of sex and actual frame size.

Body-frame size is an important factor in determining an optimal body weight for a given height. Previous studies have indicated that many individuals incorrectly estimate their body-frame size, and, as a result, incorrectly assess their ideal weight. The present study investigated the accuracy of estimation of body-frame size as a function of sex and actual frame size. The subjects were 66 men and 52 women participating in a community adult fitness program. Data indicated that medium-framed individuals were the most accurate in their estimations of body-frame size. Also, women were twice as likely to be accurate as were men. These results are interpreted to mean that most people assume they are medium-framed and that there is a sex difference in the way body-frame size is estimated.