Correlation Of Physical Fitness Factors, Body Mass Index, And Time Spent In Physical Activity Of Aims Maritime Students: Basis In The Preparation Of Agile And Resilient Cadets Onboard

Abstract

This research aims to assess the current physical fitness status of maritime students and develop strategies to prepare them before their onboarding on international and local vessels. Physical conditioning is identified as the dependent variable, reflecting the general physical functioning and fitness of the respondents. The research hypothesizes that physical activity and BMI also play a significant role in predicting physical conditioning. A total of 212 respondents from the marine transportation and marine engineering programs were included in the study, predominantly male students aged 19-21, classified under the "lower middle-income" socioeconomic category. The results indicate that the respondents perceive themselves as having good muscular condition, flexibility, and body composition. The study reveals positive associations between muscular flexibility and condition, muscular flexibility and physical conditioning, and body composition and physical conditioning. Multiple regression analyses identified muscle flexibility, muscular condition, body composition, BMI, and time spent on physical activity as significant predictors of physical conditioning. Notably, small decreases in body composition and time spent on physical activity were associated with increased physical conditioning, emphasizing the importance of improving these variables to enhance physical health. In conclusion, this research provides insights into the physical fitness status of maritime students and identifies factors influencing their physical conditioning. The study highlights the contributions of muscular flexibility, muscular condition, body composition, physical activity, and BMI in maintaining good physical health among maritime students.