Physical fitness assessment in high school students

Abstract

Abstract

The evaluation of physical fitness is an important health indicator in adolescent schoolchildren and is directly related to physical activity levels. 

Objective: To analyze and evaluate the levels of physical fitness and body composition in high school students.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study, where the physical condition of 103 high school students was evaluated, 39 females (37.86 %) and 64 males (62.13 %). The following tests were used: abdominals (abdominal strength), push-ups (push-ups), dynamometer (strength), flexibility test, pacer (cardiorespiratory), weight and height were also measured to estimate the Body Mass Index (BMI).

Results: The results regarding physical condition show a poor performance, in the right-hand test in women 66.7 % and in men in left hand 65.6 %, in abdominals 79.5 % of women and in men 62.5 % need improvement, in flexion of arms 82.1 % women and 92.2 % men, in dynamometer women 64.1 % and in men 56.3 %, in the cardiorespiratory test 94.9 % women and 73.4 % men. Body weight status showed that 37.2% of females and 40.3% presented overweight and obesity. 

Conclusions: There is a poor performance in most schoolchildren, and a predominant health risk in strength and cardiorespiratory tests, in addition, a significant prevalence of overweight and obesity in men and women. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out relevant interventions to improve the cardiorespiratory capacity and muscular strength of schoolchildren.