Harvard Step Test

The Harvard Step Test is a physical fitness assessment designed to measure cardiovascular fitness and endurance. Participants step up and down on a platform at a consistent pace for a set duration, typically five minutes. After completing the exercise, their heart rate is monitored for a recovery period. The efficiency of recovery—how quickly the heart rate returns to normal—provides insights into the individual’s fitness level. This test is often used in sports science and health assessments to evaluate an individual's aerobic capacity and overall cardiovascular health.