Which method is often used to assess aerobic capacity?

The 12-minute run/walk test is commonly used to assess aerobic capacity because it measures a person's ability to sustain physical activity over a specific duration. This test evaluates cardiovascular endurance and the efficiency of the body's ability to deliver oxygen to the muscles during extended periods of exercise. Participants are asked to cover as much distance as possible in 12 minutes, which provides a clear indication of their aerobic fitness level.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of fitness. The push-up test evaluates muscular strength and endurance, the sit-and-reach test measures flexibility, and the vertical jump test assesses power and explosiveness rather than aerobic capacity. Therefore, the 12-minute run/walk test is specifically designed to measure how well the body performs in aerobic activities, making it the appropriate choice for assessing aerobic fitness.