Flexed Arm Hang Research Articles

Adolescent Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Future Work Ability

Although research indicates that low fitness in youth is associated with a higher risk of chronic disability in men, the association of fitness in adolescence with work ability in working men and women remains unknown. To examine the associations of adolescent health-related physical fitness with future work ability. This 45-year observational cohort study, conducted in Finland, examined the direct and indirect longitudinal associations of objectively measured health-related fitness in adolescence (in 1976) with self-reported work ability and sickness absence in early middle age (in 2001) and the Work Ability Index in late middle age (in 2021). A countrywide stratified random baseline sample included fitness measurements for cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) (running 1.5 km for girls and 2 km for boys), musculoskeletal fitness (MF; standing broad jump and sit-ups for both sexes, pull-ups for boys, and flexed-arm hang for girls), and height and weight, from which body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Structural equation modeling-based path analysis, adjusted for age and sex at baseline and for educational level, work-related physical strain, and leisure-time physical activity in late middle age, was conducted. Data analysis was performed from January to July 2023. Self-reported work ability was measured with structured questions in early middle age and with the validated Work Ability Index in late middle age. The final sample from longitudinal analyses (1207 individuals; 579 [48%] male individuals) consisted of participants with fitness measurement from age 12 to 19 years, and work ability assessment from age 37 to 44 years and/or age 57 to 64 years. Higher adolescent CRF was associated with higher work ability (839 participants; β = 0.12; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.22; P = .03) and lower sickness absence (834 participants; β = -0.07; 95% CI, -0.12 to -0.02; P = .004) in early middle age and, indirectly, mediated by work ability in early middle age, with a higher work ability at the end of working age (603 participants; β = 0.04; 95% CI, 0.001 to 0.08; P = .04). The results remained consistent in both sexes and after adjustment for the confounders. Neither MF nor BMI was associated with work ability (MF, 1192 participants; β = -0.07; 95% CI, -0.17 to 0.03; BMI, 1207 participants, β = 0.09; 95% CI, -0.004 to 0.19) or sickness absence (MF, 1185 participants, β = 0.02; 95% CI, -0.03 to 0.06; BMI, 1202 participants, β = -0.03; 95% CI, -0.09 to 0.03) in early middle age or with late middle age work ability, mediated by work ability in early middle age (MF, 603 participants, β = -0.02; 95% CI, -0.06 to 0.01; BMI, 603 participants, β = 0.03; 95% CI, -0.004 to 0.07). These findings suggest that low CRF in youth is associated with poor work ability at the middle and end of working life, which highlights the informative and prognostic value of CRF assessment early in youth. Enhancing CRF in the first decades of life might contribute to better work capacity and productivity in the labor force, which would have implications for health, quality of life, society, and the economy.

The relationships between upper extremity muscle strength and endurance with respiratory function, functional capacity and quality of life in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis

Background/Aims The number of studies exploring isolated upper extremity muscle strength and endurance in paediatric patients with cystic fibrosis is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between upper extremity muscle strength and endurance with respiratory functions, functional capacity and quality of life in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis. Methods Children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis performed a flexed arm hang test to measure muscle endurance, movement against a dynamometer to measure muscle strength, a pulmonary function test and 6-minute walk test to measure functional capacity. The Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire Revised was used to assess quality of life. Results A total of 29 children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (15 girls, 14 boys) participated in the study. Biceps muscle strength moderately correlated with forced expiratory volume in 1 second predicted percentage, forced vital capacity predicted percentage and the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second to forced vital capacity predicted percentage (r=0.306, P=0.035; r=0.405; P=0.029; r=0.367, P=0.048, respectively). Biceps muscle strength, shoulder abductors muscle strength, hand grip strength and flexed arm hang test correlated with the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second to forced vital capacity predicted percentage. Biceps muscle strength, shoulder abductors muscle strength, hand grip strength and flexed arm hang test correlated with 6-minute walk test distance (r=0.678, p<0.001; r=0.732, p<0.001; r=0.512, P=0.005; r=0.375, P=0.045, respectively). Biceps muscle strength and shoulder abductors muscle strength moderately correlated with emotional functioning and eating disturbances in the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire Revised (r=0.451, P=0.014). Conclusions Specific assessment of upper extremity muscle strength and endurance in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis may be helpful in informing physiotherapists of respiratory function, functional capacity and quality of life status.]

Age-related physical and performance changes in young swimmers: The comparison of predictive models in 50-meter swimming performance

Introduction: The purpose of the study was to investigate the age-related anthropometric and motor performance changes over time and their contributions to swimming style-specific performance in young different chronological age swimmers. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on a total of forty swimmers who were divided into 2 groups. The Anthropometric meas-urements were executed from 12 body parts, and body composition analysis was determined by using the skinfold method. The motor performance tests were performed for the assessment of standing horizontal jump, handgrip strength, flexed-arm hang strength, sit-up, flexibility, aerobic endurance, speed, agility, and balance. Simple Linear Regression analysis was performed to build the models for each of the swimming styles. Results: All the models indicated that aerobic endur-ance was a significantly predictive variable on all swimming styles (p < 0.001). The results indicated that the anthropometric and motor performance predictors changed depending upon the age pro-gression in each swimming style (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The effect of many variables on swimming performance is seen to be more evident in the following periods based on the increase of age. Aerobic endurance is a common variable that shows effectiveness on swimming performance for both all age groups and swimming styles.

THE RELATIONSHIP BALANCE AND ARM MUSCLE STRENGTH TO SHOOT LAY-UP SKILLS IN BASKETBALL

This study aims to analyze the relationship between balance and arm muscle strength on lay-up shoot skills in basketball games for MA extracurricular students. Riyadus Sholihin. The sample in this study was taken as a whole or total sampling, namely 30 students. The balance test uses the stand stroke test, for arm muscle strength uses the flexed-arm hang test and for lay up shoots uses the lay up shoot ability test. The data analysis technique was processed with proportions and the hypothesis was tested using correlation with the help of a computer in the excel and SPSS 23 programs. Based on the analysis of the proportion of the data obtained, namely for the results of the balance, the proportion of 100% was obtained, totaling 30 students who had an average balance result in the less category for girls and medium category for boys. The results of arm muscle strength have an average category of less than once for women and very few categories for men. Whereas the results of the ability to lay up shoot have an average result with a less category for women and an adequate category for men. This means that there is a contribution to the relationship between balance and arm muscle strength on lay-up shoot skills in basketball games.

The Impact of Pandemic Lockdowns and Remote Learning on Student Fitness: An Investigation of Changes to High School Student Fitness Levels

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact on health-related fitness resulting from COVID-19 lockdowns on male high school students in Melbourne, Australia. Method: A total of 146 students completed fitness testing in February and retesting in November following 7 months of remote learning. Fitness tests conducted were 20-m shuttle run (Beep Test), flexed arm hang, body mass index, push-ups, sit-ups, and sit and reach. Results: The mean fitness levels of this cohort decreased across the health-related fitness components. Decreases were varying in magnitude, body composition (d = 0.3), flexibility (d = 0.56), muscular strength (d = 0.64), muscular endurance (d = 0.39 and d = 0.26), and cardiovascular endurance (d = 0.96). Discussion: The impact on students’ fitness levels was noteworthy, and the long-term impacts of this decrease are yet to be seen. This research brings focus to what can be done to maintain adolescent fitness when their usual exercise opportunities are not available.

Factor’s indicating the performance in men’s artistic gymnastics based on extracted variables at the initial stage of training

Purpose
 To develop the regression equation with the help of step wise method in linear regression.
 Material and methods
 In this study, 150 boy's gymnasts from National Sports Academy in Allahabad (India) (age 6+4 years; height 102+46; body weight 22+8) had participated and they provided informed consent before the testing procedure. Over Grip Hang on Horizontal Bar, Bridge up test, Leg Raise Forward, Front Split, Shuttle Run on Floor Exercise, Beam Walk Test, and Flexed Arm Hang on Horizontal Bar were selected as the testing variables and after using the liner regression analysis
 Results
 The equation was formed which estimates that Beam walk test, Shuttle run on Floor Exercise, Over grip hang on Horizontal, and Flexed arm hang on Horizontal bar account for 41% of the variation in the relation of dependent variables (Gymnastics Performance).
 Conclusion
 A thorough study of the factors that foster gymnast growth is essential since it is crucial in gymnastics to identify potential early in a player's career [16, 17, 22], for that extracted factors and gymnastics performance were selected to form the regression equation. The four variables selected to create the regression equation which explains 41 % of the total variability which is quite good and valid for estimating the Gymnastics Performance.
 Conclusion
 A thorough study of the factors that foster gymnast growth is essential since it is crucial in gymnastics to identify potential early in a player's career [16, 17, 22], for that extracted factors and gymnastics performance were selected to form the regression equation. The four variables selected to create the regression equation which explains 41 % of the total variability which is quite good and valid for estimating the Gymnastics Performance.

Comparison of Selected Characteristics of Slovak and Polish Representatives in Kickboxing.

Background: Previous kickboxing studies conducted over the last three decades have focused on improving performance through physical fitness characteristics; however, most of the research focused on men. The objective of this study is to assess the level of physical fitness of Slovak and Polish female kickboxers in the highest sport level as well as to compare the differences between them. Methods: The study included 20 female kickboxers on the highest level of sport performance, 10 from Slovakia (body mass—53.59; height—166.45) and 10 from Poland (body mass—60.35; height —169.95), from senior categories, with a mean age of 23 ± 2. The selection criteria included training experience and sports level. The level of physical fitness was evaluated by the following tests: Cooper’s test, 50 m sprint, sit-ups, flexed arm hang and standing long jump. Technical and tactical indicators were used to assess the sports skill level during the competition. Results: The test results of both groups are very comparable based on the evaluated data of Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA. The attack activity index together with sit-ups demonstrated statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between Slovak and Polish kickboxers. A strong positive correlation was proven between technical and tactical indicators and physical fitness tests in the results of both groups. Conclusions: There exists a positive correlation between the technical and tactical indicators of kickboxers and the explosive strength of lower limbs, strength endurance, abdominal muscle strength, speed and aerobic endurance. Differences between Slovak and Polish kickboxers have been shown in the attack activity index and in the level of strength endurance. The level of speed and explosive power of the lower limbs was comparable in both groups of kickboxers.

Exploring physical performance using basic fitness test among collegiate students.

To determine the effect of recreational status, body weight and risk factors on physical fitness of general students and on agility of physical therapy students. The cross-sectional study was conducted at Taibah University, Medina, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from November 2018 to April 2019, and comprised general and physical therapy students from the College of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences. Data was obtained related to risk factors, like overweight, smoking and recreational status. Upper body strength, agility and endurance were measured using flexed-arm hang, 11x10 shuttle sprint test, and 1000-meter run test respectively. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. Of the 50 subjects, 30(60%) were physical therapy students and 20(40%) were general students. Overall mean age of the sample was 21.54±1.83 years (range: 18-26), and mean body mass index was 23.34±3.37kg/m2 (range: 16.8-29.4kg/m2). The mean values for overweight status and number of risk factors were significantly different for the shuttle-sprint test (p<0.05), but were non-significant for the recreational status (p>0.05). All the assessed variables had non-significant association (p>0.05) in terms of flexed-arm hang test. Overall, 29(58%) subjects could not complete the 1000-meter run test, and 44(88%) found it a strong exertion. Unhealthy lifestyle significantly impaired physical fitness. gain by the diabetics.

Inspiratory Muscle Training and Physical Fitness in Children With Down Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on physical fitness in children with Down syndrome (DS). DesignRandomized control trial. SettingThe study was conducted in a private physical therapy center. ParticipantsForty boys and girls with DS aged between 7 and 10 years were enrolled in this study (N=40). They were randomly and equally divided into 2 groups (A and B). InterventionsAll participants received 30 minutes of aerobic exercise training 3 times per week for 12 weeks, whereas group B received an additional 30 minutes of IMT before each aerobic exercise session. Main Outcomes MeasuresMaximal inspiratory pressure (MIP); maximal expiratory pressure (MEP); submaximal aerobic endurance; muscular strength; endurance. ResultsAmong the group undergoing IMT, there were significant improvements in MIP, MEP, and submaximal aerobic endurance using the six-minute walk test (6MWT); strength and endurance using the curl-up, dumbbell press, trunk lift, standing long jump, seated push-up, pull-up, and flexed-arm hang; and back saver sit and reach tests (P > 0.05). ConclusionsInspiratory muscle training and aerobic exercise training demonstrated more significant improvements in physical fitness than in those children who received only aerobic exercise training.

Baseline Physical Activity Behaviors and Relationships with Fitness in the Army Training at High Intensity Study.

United States Army soldiers must meet physical fitness test standards. Criticisms of the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) include limited testing of only aerobic and muscular endurance activity domains; yet, it is unclear what levels of aerobic and muscle strengthening activity may help predict performance in aspects of the new Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). This study explored relationships between baseline self-reported aerobic and muscle strengthening activities and APFT- and ACFT-related performance. Baseline participant data (N = 123) were from a cluster-randomized clinical trial that recruited active-duty military personnel (mean age 33.7 ± 5.7 years, 72.4% White, 87.0% college-educated, 81.5% Officers). An online survey was used for self-report of socio-demographic characteristics and weekly aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity behaviors. Participants also completed the APFT (2 min push-ups, 2 min sit-ups, 2-mile run) and ACFT-related measures (1-repetition maximum deadlift, pull-up repetitions or timed flexed arm hang, horizontal jump, and dummy drag). Bivariate logistic regression found greater aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity predicted better APFT performance, while better ACFT-related performance was predicted by greater muscle-strengthening activity. Although our data are mostly from mid-career officers, command policies should emphasize the new Holistic Health and Fitness initiative that encourages regular aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity for soldiers.

Impact of Physical and Mental Training on Overall Performance and Sports Injury Prevention in Female Volleyball Athletes

The goal of this study was to assess and investigate the Impact of the Physical &amp; Mental training on thephysical fitness, competitive anxiety level and self-confidence of Female Volleyball Athletes in order toprevent the chances of injury during Volleyball and to educate the proper techniques for the sports injuryprevention. A total of 35 participants were included in the study after clearing functional movement screening(FMS). The participants were assessed pre and post the study to find the result and prove the hypothesis.The scales used were SCAT, TSCI, AAHPER. The participants were undergone 11 weeks interval trainingsession. The pre and post results were analyzed on T-Test and Percentage analysis. The findings of presentstudy show that in 35 participants 66% of the participants had shown improvement in the confidence levelafter the training whereas 71 % had shown improvement in the anxiety level after the training. On analyzing6 components of motor fitness on the basis of AAHPER Motor fitness test, 77% got benefitted in the SitUps training, 91 % got benefitted in flexed arm hang training. 66% had shown improvement in shuttlerun training. 54 % participants had shown improvement in standing long jump and 600-yard run trainingwhereas 51 % participants had shown improving in 50-yard dash training.Conclusion: On analyzing the physical fitness through AAHPER scale, the pre post results were highlysignificant which proves the physical training sessions of 11 weeks were effective in the improvement ofthe physical fitness of female Volleyball players. The Confidence level were remarkably improved aftertraining sessions as the T test pre post analysis was highly significant. The anxiety level of the participantswas shown improvement in the percentage analysis when they were assessed pre and post training sessionsthrough SCAT Scale. On the basis of the findings, it can be concluded that Interval Training session (Physicaland Mental) are effective on the overall performance of Female Volleyball Athletes.

Effect of Integrated Neuromuscular Exercise in Physical Education Class on Health-Related Fitness in Female Children.

Integrated neuromuscular training (INT) showed benefits for improving fundamental movement skills (FMS). However, the INT health-related fitness (HRF) effects are lacking. The current study aimed to determine the effects of INT implemented during physical education (PE) in a primary school in the Republic of Serbia on HRF in female children. The sample consisted of 72 healthy girls who were divided into the intervention (EG: n = 37; mean ± SD: age = 8.17 ± 0.31) and control (CG: n = 35; age = 8.11 ± 0.31) groups. The EG and CG performed the INT program and traditional PE activities two times per week within the first ~15 min of PE class, respectively. The Fitnessgram battery tests assessed the HRF (body composition, cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular fitness, and flexibility) before and after the program. After eight weeks, the EG significantly reduced all fat measures, while the CG decreased only triceps skinfold but to a smaller extent (F = 5.92, p < 0.02, η2 = 0.09). Both groups significantly improved the performance of almost all muscular fitness tests (curl-ups, trunk lift, push-ups); however, the EG increased the push-ups more than the CG (F = 9.01, p < 0.01, η2 = 0.14). The EG additionally improved the modified pull-ups (F = 14.09, p < 0.01, η2 = 0.19) and flexed arm hang (F = 28.82, p < 0.01, η2 = 0.33) tests. The flexibility and cardiorespiratory endurance of both groups did not significantly change after eight weeks. This approach of exercise showed positive acceptance and relatively good results after only eight weeks.

Using Anthropometric Data and Physical Fitness Scores to Predict Selection in a National U19 Rugby Union Team.

The purpose of this study was to compare measures of anthropometry characteristics and physical fitness performance between rugby union players (17.9 ± 0.5 years old) recruited (n = 39) and non-recruited (n = 145) to the Portuguese under-19 (U19) national team, controlling for their playing position (forwards or backs). Standardized anthropometric, physical, and performance assessment tests included players’ body mass and height, push up and pull-up test, squat test, sit-and-reach test, 20 m shuttle run test, flexed arm hang test, Sargent test, handgrip strength test, Illinois agility test, and 20-m and 50-m sprint test. Results showed that recruited forwards players had better agility scores (p = 0.02, ES = −0.55) than the non-recruited forwards, whereas recruited backs players had higher right (p < 0.01, ES = 0.84) and left (p = 0.01, ES = 0.74) handgrip strength scores than their counterparts. Logistic regression showed that better agility (for the forwards) and right handgrip strength scores (for the backs) were the only variables significantly associated with an increased likelihood of being recruited to the national team. In sum, these findings suggest that certain well-developed physical qualities, namely, agility for the forwards players and upper-body strength for the back players, partially explain the selection of U19 rugby players to their national team.

Correlation between Fitness Parameters and An Occupational Rescue Simulation among Emergency Care Providers in North West Province, South Africa: A Pilot Study

Objective The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between validated fitness parameters and an emergency rescue simulation (RS) circuit performed by emergency care providers (ECPs). Methods A cross-sectional study was selected to determine the relationship between the fitness tests and the RS. Twenty ECPs in the North West province of South Africa participated in the study. Demographic data were collected, followed by testing of anthropometric characteristics and field fitness tests measuring muscular strength, muscular endurance, aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity and flexibility. Thereafter, participants had to complete a RS circuit. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between variables. Differences in age, gender and body mass index formed part of the descriptive statistics. A test-retest reliability method was applied to evaluate the reliability of the RS. Results Significant correlations were found between the RS and the 250 m shuttle run (r=0.83; p&lt;0.01), flexed-arm hang test (r=-0.59; p&lt;0.01), Cooper 12-minute test (r=-0.56; p&lt;0.01), and the maximum push-up test (r=-0.51; p&lt;0.05). Conclusion Findings demonstrate a possible association between aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity, muscular strength, muscular endurance and ECP performance in an occupational task-related RS. Improved performance in these specific fitness areas may enable ECPs to be better prepared for the physical demands of their occupation. The RS may also be used as a tool to assess job (physical) preparedness of qualified ECPs during their recruitment, but this requires further validation.

Exploring the impact of physical factors on the overweight and obese physical therapy students

ObjectivePhysical fitness is a fundamental pillar for physical therapy students in promoting their physical health. Obese and overweight students might have limited physical capabilities. Therefore, we investigated the effect of overweight and obesity on the mobility, strength, and agility of physical therapy students. MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, we collected data from a sample of 13 overweight and 9 obese physical therapy students, aged between 19 and 24 years. We measured spinal, upper, and lower limb mobility; upper body strength (using the flexed-arm hang test), and agility (using the 11 × 10 shuttle sprint test). ResultsThe independent sample t test comparing the mean values of overweight and obese participants showed no significant difference [t(20) = -0.16, p > 0.05] for the 11 × 10 shuttle sprint test. However, there was significant difference [t (15.2) = 3.79, p < 0.05] for the flexed-arm hang test. The Pearson's correlation test showed a moderate negative correlation between the body mass index and flexed arm hang [r(20) = -0.62, p < 0.005)], indicating that the participants with higher body mass index tended to hold on for less time during the flexed-arm hang test. The correlation assessment showed weak positive correlation between body mass index and the 11 × 10 shuttle sprint test. ConclusionsIn our study, the obese college students tended to have poor physical factors, especially upper body strength and lower limb mobility, compared with the overweight participants. The obese and overweight college students demonstrate lower physical and functional capabilities.

Constructing a Talent Identification Index System and Evaluation Model for Cross-Country Skiers

ABSTRACT A talent identification index system for male and female cross-country skiers in four age groups (11–12 years old, 13–14 years old, 15–16 years old, and 17–18 years old) was established. The system comprises five body shape indexes (=5): Leg-to-Body Ratio (LBR), body fat percentage, maturity status, spreaded brachia index, and upper extremity length. The physiological function indexes (=2) are VO2max and haemoglobin mass (Hb). The psychological indexes (=5) cover reaction time, perception speed, a quality-of-will scale, an attention test, and operational thinking. The physical fitness indexes (=11) comprise upper limb explosiveness, vertical jump, 3000-metre run, orthostatic forward flexion, closed-eyes single-leg stand, standing long jump, 20-metre sprint, pull-ups (males), flexed arm hang (females), hexagon jump, and a Functional Movement Screen (FMS) test. The athletic performance indexes (=3) comprise on-snow time trials for 1.2 km, 5 km, and 10 km. The talent identification evaluation model was created using automated evaluation software. The talent identification index system and evaluation standard table for cross-country skiers passed the P60 shortlist and P90 elite boundaries established using the percentile method. Thus, the results of this test profile verify that the evaluative model is objectively effective.

Analysis of Instruction on a University Strength Training Activity Course

This research examined the effects of instruction on experiential knowledge, fitness, self-efficacy, and adherence to strength training of a university weight lifting activity course. Participants (n = 35) were enrolled in two introductory-level university strength training activity courses, which met for 85 min twice a week for 15 weeks. The intervention group was exposed to student-centered instructional strategies based on the Personalized System of Instruction (PSI), which included personalized feedback on each student’s individualized fitness plan. The control group experienced traditional activity course instruction with direct instruction to the whole group. Pre- and posttest assessments were collected and statistical analyses were conducted (p < .05). One-way repeated-measures ANOVA tests revealed univariate statistical differences in fitness measures (push-up, curl-up, and flexed-arm hang), perceived knowledge scores, and the weight management motivation factor of the Exercise Motive and Gains Inventory. Additional differences were observed between groups; however, due to the low number of participants, these differences were not statistically significant. The findings suggest that student-centered instruction in a strength training activity course can benefit student knowledge, fitness, and adherence to a strength training plan. Further research in this area should replicate this study with a greater sample size to determine if the observed differences are statistically significant within a larger research population.Subscribe to TPE

Gender Differences in Physical Fitness among Cameroonian School Children Aged 10 to 15 Years in Yaounde City

Background: The level of physical fitness indicates children’s health status and guides them towards sport branches. This crosssectional study aimed at determining the physical fitness of Cameroonian school-children aged 10 to 15 years in Yaounde city by comparing the results according to gender and with European normative values. A total of 504 healthy school children (51.58% females and 48.42% males) regularly attending physical education classes were conveniently selected from a secondary school. Methods: We collected anthropometric and physiological characteristics and the participants completed five physical tests integrated in the EUROFIT battery, namely standing broad jump (SBJ), flexed arm hang (FAH), sit-ups for 30 sec (SU), hand grip strength (HGS), and 10×5-m shuttle run test (10×5-mSRT). Values obtained from the tests were compared according to gender in each age. Results: Boys had a better performance compared with girls in different tests. No significant difference was found between boys and girls aged 10 to 14 years in 10×5-mSRT and from 10 to 12 years regarding HGS. However, performances were similar at 12 years in SBJ, at 12 and 13 years in FAH, and at 11 years in SU. School children in Yaounde city had better performances in SBJ, FAH, and 10×5-mSRT compared to their European counterparts. Conclusions: School-children in Yaounde city presented high physical fitness, and males had a better physical fitness than females aged 10-15. A study including the entire EUROFIT test battery with a great number of participants is needed to provide reference values in this population

Physical Fitness and Somatic Characteristics of the Only Child.

The purpose of this study was to examine if only child show differences on somatic growth and physical fitness compared to be a child with siblings. The participants included 542 children (boys: N = 270; girls: N = 270) between 7 and 15 years of age. Somatic growth (height, weight, body mass index) and physical fitness (handgrip strength; flexed harm hang; 60-s sit-ups; standing long jump; 10-m shuttle run and PACER test) were assessed. Variance analysis revealed significant advantages for children with siblings in the flexed arm hang (p = 0.046), 60-s sit-ups (p = 0.002), 10-m shuttle run (p = 0.013) and PACER (p = 0.032). An examination of the possible differential effect of sex on the results revealed no significance for physical fitness variables, but significant interaction were found for weight (p = 0.004) and body mass index (p = 0.005). Despite a lack of interactions between offspring and sex in physical fitness, significant differences between sexes were found in all fitness variables. In conclusion, having siblings showed to be advantageous for general physical fitness in children. This evidence may be used for future analysis and interventions in motor competence, namely considering the growing number of only children in some regions of the world.

INVESTIGATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PULL UPS AND FLEXED-ARM HANGS

Adayların fiziksel yeterliliklerinin ölçüldüğü sınavlarda, barfikste kol çekme testinin uygulanması durumunda, çoğu katılımcının sıfır puan (tekrar) aldığı gözlenmektedir. Barfikste kol çekemeyen katılımcıların kollarının ve omuz çevrelerinin kuvvetinin ve dayanıklılığının sayısal olarak ifade edilmesi için alternatif bir teste ihtiyaç duyulmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, dinamik üst vücut kuvvetinin ölçülmesi için kullanılan barfikste kol çekme testinin sınırlılıkları ve eksiklikleri kapsamında, barfikste bükülü kol ile asılı kalma testinin alternatif olarak kullanılabilme durumu incelenmiştir. Çalışmaya, 19-21 yaşları arasında (X= 20,1 ± 0,8) bulunan 937 katılımcı iştirak etmiştir. Katılımcıların sırasıyla; Boy uzunluğu-Vücut ağırlığı, Bükülü Kol Asılı Kalma, Barfikste Kol Çekme ve El Kavrama değerleri belirlenmiştir. Elde edilen veriler Pearson korelasyon analizi ile sınanmıştır. Sonuçlara göre barfikste kol çekme ile barfikste asılı kalma süresi arasında orta şiddette pozitif anlamlı ilişki olduğu gözlenmiştir, (r (937) = ,51, p &amp;lt;,001). Katılımcıların barfikste asılı kalma süreleri ile vücut ağırlıkları arasında ise zayıf şiddette negatif anlamlı ilişki bulunmaktadır (r (937) =-,31, p &amp;lt;,001). Çalışmanın sonucuna göre; barfikste kol çekme testinin uygulanmasının mümkün olmadığı durumlarda, alternatif olarak barfikste asılı kalma testinin uygulanmasının mümkün olabileceği söylenebilir.