Comparison of selected physical fitness parameters between collegiate long distance runners, basketball players and weight lifters/power lifters

Abstract

Physical Fitness and abilities vary from sport to sport. For the purposes of differentiation with regard to physiological and physical characteristics sport can be classified as team sport, individual sport and power sport. Various Studies have been done as to the physiological requirements in different sports. This study aims to throw light on the selected physical fitness parameters namely, aerobic capacity, flexibility and Anaerobic power in long distance runners (individual events), basketball players (team events) and weight/power lifters (power events) at the collegiate level. Standardised tests such as Cooper test (Cardiovascular fitness), Sit and Reach test (flexibility) and Vertical Jump test (Anaerobic power) have been used to assess the abilities. Statistical techniques like ANOVA has been applied find out the differences between the sports. The findings indicate that the athletes dominate in aerobic capacity while the basketball players and weight/power lifters dominate in anaerobic power. Basketball players indicate less flexibility than the other groups.