Assessment Of Physical Fitness Research Articles

Peculiarities of determining the level of physical fitness of female servicemen

As a result of a theoretical study and an analysis of normative levels of physical fitness in the Armed Forces, initial data were formed regarding the specifics of determining the assessment of physical fitness of female servicemen. The physical training program was studied in terms of the number of exercises that are provided for female servicemen as a control and check in comparison with the programs that are used to assess the physical fitness of male servicemen. It has been established that there are qualifying exercises for female servicemen that have simplified performance conditions compared to similar exercises for men. The non-uniformity of the requirements for the physical fitness of female servicemen compared to the requirements for male servicemen has been confirmed. The experience of NATO countries in the organization of physical training and determining the assessment of the physical readiness of female servicemen is analyzed. Attention has been sharpened on possible prerequisites for improper performance of official duties and injuries during the performance of official duties.

Physical fitness of students of different physical health

The main didactic principle of physical education of students is the principle of accessibility (differentiation). Differentiation is based on individual capabilities of groups homogeneous in terms of physical health. Objective: to substantiate the physical prerequisites for differentiated physical education of students, taking into account their level of physical health. Material and methods. The study involved 102 first-year and second-year higher education students. The choice of these students was due to low physical fitness and deteriorating health. The study used analysis and synthesis of scientific and methodological sources, pedagogical testing of physical qualities, express assessment of physical health, and sample statistical method. Conclusions: the content of physical activity (volume and intensity, duration of recovery between bouts and series of exercises) is primarily determined by the level of health of participants. Among female students, this is an average level of physical health, and among male students is an above average level. The worst physical abilities are associated with a below average level of physical health. This may be the basis for a differentiated assessment of physical fitness.

Field-based physical fitness assessment in preschool children in China

BackgroundPhysical fitness in the preschool years is considered a marker of current and future health. Therefore, understanding physical fitness levels of preschool children is necessary. Furthermore, the use of field-based methods to measure physical fitness is essential for assessing children in authentic venues such as schools. Hence, the main purpose of this study was to describe the physical fitness of Chinese preschool children across field-based methods considering a statement of confidence intervals for reference in physical fitness in each age and genders.MethodsA total of 619 children (296 boys and 323 girls) aged 3–6 years old from China participated in the present study. Physical fitness was measured using the Chinese National Physical Fitness Measurement (CNPFM-Pre) battery, which included the tennis ball throw (upper-limb muscular strength), standing long jump (lower-limb muscular strength), shuttle run test (speed-agility), double-leg timed hop (coordination), sit-and-reach (flexibility), and balance beam test (dynamic balance).ResultsThe results revealed significant differences in gender for standing long jump (SLJ; η2 = 0.012, p = 0.007), tennis ball throw (TT; η2 = 0.081, p < 0.001), sit-and-reach (SR; η2 = 0.114, p < 0.001), and one-legged stance test (OST; η2 = 0.037, p < 0.001). Age had positive effects on all physical fitness performance tests, as the shuttle run test (η2 = 0.672, p < 0.001), SLJ (η2 = 0.513, p < 0.001), TT (η2 = 0.394, p < 0.001), double-legged timed hop test (DTH; η2 = 0.445, p < 0.001), SR (η2 = 0.069, p < 0.001), balance beam test (BBT; η2 = 0.367, p < 0.001), and OST (η2 = 0.336, p < 0.001). Older preschool children performed better than their younger counterparts in all the tests. No significant interactions between age groups and gender were found.ConclusionsThis study provided age- and gender-specific physical fitness performance data in Chinese preschool children. Gender differences in physical fitness tests performance already exists at the preschool age. All physical fitness component results increased with age in this cohort. These findings can help healthcare, physical education, and pediatric professionals understand the physical fitness development of preschool children at different ages and help design sports tasks for preschool boys and girls.

Relationships of body build and physical activity with the physical fitness of high school students

Background: Physical fitness determines resourcefulness, i.e. the ability to effectively solve various tasks faced by a person and, therefore, to cope with various situations. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships of body build and physical activity with physical fitness in high school students. Methods: The research covered 194 students (104 women and 90 men) aged 16-18, attending randomly selected high schools in the Rzeszów district. The research methods were a diagnostic survey and the Eurofit test battery. The Mann-Whitney U test, Pearson’s chi-square test, and Spearman’s rank correlation were used in the analyses. Results: Statistically significant relationships were found between the preferred forms of physical activity (p=0.041, p=0.008) and the subjective assessment of physical fitness (p=0.015) and the sex of the respondents. There were statistically significant sex-related differences in the Sit-and-Reach (p&lt;0.001), Standing Broad Jump (p&lt;0.001), Hand Grip (p&lt;0.001), Sit- Ups (p&lt;0.001), Bent Arm Hang (p&lt; 0.001), Shuttle Run (p&lt;0.001), and Endurance Shuttle Run (p&lt;0.001). In both groups, there were statistically significant relationships between the subjective assessment of physical fitness and the results of physical fitness tests (p&lt;0.05). Conclusions: Women chose dancing more frequently and considered their physical fitness to be average, while men preferred team sports and assessed their physical fitness as very good. Women are characterized by greater flexibility, and men by greater explosive strength of lower limbs, static strength, strength endurance of trunk muscles, speed and agility, and cardiorespiratory endurance. In both groups, the higher the subjective assessment of physical fitness, the better the results of individual physical fitness tests.

The Impact of Exercise on C-reactive Protein Levels in Hypertensive Patients: A Systematic Review.

Hypertension, defined as persistently elevated blood pressure, is a prevalent chronic condition and a significant global health issue, closely linked to cardiovascular complications, with inflammation being one of the underlying mechanisms. In hypertensive patients, C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory marker, is often elevated and associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Alongside pharmacotherapy, exercise is recommended as a non-pharmacological approach to managing hypertension, with evidence suggesting that exercise can also reduce inflammation. This study examines the impact of exercise on CRP levels in hypertensive patients. Fourteen studies focusing on exercise interventions and physical fitness related to CRP in individuals with high blood pressure were identified through an extensive search of PubMed, PubMed Central, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The findings indicated that most studies involving aerobic exercise consistently demonstrated reductions in CRP levels among hypertensive patients, with significant effects observed under supervised conditions, and additional benefits seen when combined with dietary control. Resistance training showed mixed results, with significant reductions in CRP observed primarily in longer-term interventions. Combined exercise training, incorporating both aerobic and resistance elements, effectively reduced CRP levels and improved cardiovascular health markers. Physical fitness assessments, such as a bicycle exercise test to exhaustion, revealed a relationship between physical fitness and decreased CRP levels. Therefore, regular, consistent aerobic and combined training, as well as prolonged resistance exercise, significantly reduce CRP levels in hypertensive patients, highlighting exercise's role as a non-pharmacological strategy for managing hypertension through the reduction of inflammation. Further research is essential to validate these findings and investigate the underlying mechanisms and differential effects of various exercise modalities.

Individualized activity recommendation based on a physical fitness assessment increases short- and long-term regular physical activity in people with multiple sclerosis in a retrospective cohort study.

Despite the evidence of beneficial effects of physical activity (PA), people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) are less physically active than the general population. To increase PA in pwMS, we developed a structured individually tailored PA promotion program which is conducted within clinical practice in a university-based outpatient clinic since 2016. This study serves as retrospective quality control of this program. In a retrospective cohort study, we assessed the physical fitness of pwMS and the impact of the program on short- and long-term PA changes and behavioral determinants. The program consisted of four appointments each 2-4 weeks apart. Spiroergometric test results of female pwMS were compared to female non-MS controls who underwent a voluntary physical fitness analysis. The short version of the Freiburger questionnaire, self-developed questions and the modified Physical activity screening questionnaire (PASQ) were sent to all participants assessing the PA levels before the program, 3 months after the program (short-term), and at the time of the survey (long-term). Additionally, established questionnaires assessed behavioral determinants before the program and long-term. A total of 166 participants [mean age 38.32 (± 10.61 SD), mean EDSS 2.30 (±1.29 SD)] and mostly females (63.3%, n = 105) were included in the study and started the program. A total of 136 participants completed the program. Out of these 63.9% (n = 87) answered the questionnaires in 12.38 (±11.34 SD) months after finishing the program. At baseline female pwMS (n = 100) showed a lower physical fitness in comparison to non-MS controls (n = 26) (maximal workload (Watts): 138.86 ± 37.85 vs. 191.73 ± 45.25, p < 0.001; peak oxygen consumption (ml min-1 kg-1): 26.40 ± 7.23 vs. 31.56 ± 10.10, p = 0.020). pwMS were more regularly active in short- (62.1%) and long-term (55.2%) compared to baseline (24.2%, p < 0.001). Among the activated participants, we observed improved internal motivation (p = 0.002) and decreased perception of barriers (p = 0.006) compared to baseline. PwMS showed a lower physical fitness in comparison to non-MS controls. An individually tailored PA promotion program might improve behavioral determinants and thereby increase short- and long-term PA levels of pwMS.

Physical Fitness in the Armed Forces: A Comprehensive Study of International Assessment Practices

The aim of this study is to thoroughly examine the physical fitness assessment methods used in the armed forces of various countries and to evaluate the physical fitness criteria necessary for military personnel to maintain their operational capabilities and overall health. Within the scope of the research, physical fitness assessment tests used in the armed forces of 17 countries, including the United States, Germany, Australia, Austria, the Czech Republic, China, Finland, France, Georgia, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Israel, Sweden, Latvia, Russia, and Turkey, were examined. It was observed that the tests aim to determine the soldiers' muscle strength, aerobic capacity, endurance, and overall physical fitness status. Additionally, it was found that while the physical fitness test and evaluation criteria applied by these countries vary, their fundamental purposes in practice are similar. Research has shown that maintaining physical fitness levels results in increased resilience of soldiers against problems and difficulties they may face in combat conditions, contributing to operational success. In this context, it is of great importance for national armies to continue and enhance their physical fitness programs. Moreover, it is essential to systematically review and update physical fitness test evaluations in accordance with scientific advancements, which will contribute to varying operational requirements in the armies. In conclusion, maintaining and improving physical fitness levels is a critical factor for the operational success of soldiers. Therefore, it should be regularly monitored and enhanced. This research aims to emphasize the importance of physical fitness test evaluations applied in national armies and contribute to the development of related studies. By sharing the practices implemented, it aims to take significant steps internationally towards enhancing soldiers' physical capacities.

Multiplatform Computer Vision System to Support Physical Fitness Assessments in Schoolchildren

Multiplatform Computer Vision System to Support Physical Fitness Assessments in Schoolchildren

Prolonged sitting reduces cerebral oxygenation in physically active young adults

IntroductionPhysical activity is known to enhance cognitive functioning across the lifespan, yet the effects of sedentary behaviors on cognitive functioning remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine how an acute daily bout of prolonged sitting influenced working memory, inhibitory control, and cerebral oxygenation (HbO2) in a sample of healthy young adults.MethodsForty-one young adults (aged between 18–30 years of age) participated in an exploratory design intended to establish a control standard for determining how an acute 2-h bout of prolonged sitting influenced working memory, inhibitory control, and HbO2. The Flanker task, Simon task, and Delayed Match to Sample were utilized to assess inhibitory control and working memory, respectively, while functional near-infrared spectroscopy assessed HbO2. Participants were further subdivided into a physically active (Active) group and a physically inactive group (Inactive) based on self-reported physical activity participation. Paired sample t-tests were used to determine any changes in working memory, inhibitory control, and HbO2 from pre-to-post and between groups.ResultsThere were no differences in working memory or inhibitory control reaction time following prolonged sitting for the entire sample (p &amp;gt; 0.05) or between activity groups (p &amp;gt; 0.05). There was a significant reduction in Flanker accuracy post-prolonged sitting for both the congruent (p &amp;lt; 0.05) and incongruent (p &amp;lt; 0.05) conditions. For those in the Inactive group, there was no difference in HbO2 concentrations post-prolonged sitting. Those in the Active group exhibited a significant reduction in HbO2 during the Flanker Task following prolonged sitting (p &amp;lt; 0.05).ConclusionsAn acute bout of daily prolonged sitting significantly reduced HbO2 in physically active young adults but not in inactive young adults. We recommend that future studies examining the effects of sedentary behaviors on microvasculature include an objective assessment of physical fitness and a direct measure of physical activity patterns and consider these values when assigning participants to the intervention condition.

Association of parent-child discrepancies in educational aspirations with physical fitness, quality of life and school adaptation among adolescents: a multiple mediation model

BackgroundThe global public health issue of diminishing physical fitness among adolescents has gained increasing attention. The impact of parents’ negative emotions or pressure regarding adolescents’ educational aspirations may have a passive impact on the quality of life and adaptation of adolescents in and out of school, and ultimately harm their physical health. This study aims to explore whether parent-child discrepancies in educational aspirations influence physical fitness in adolescents through school adaptation and quality of life.MethodsParticipants consisted of 9,768 students, males 4,753(48.7%), females 5,015(51.3%), aged 11–19 years, males 14.3 ± 1.92, females 14.4 ± 1.93. The educational aspirations were gauged using a six-point scale for expectation scores. Physical fitness assessments were based on criteria from the National Student Physical Fitness and Health Survey. School adaptation was evaluated using the School Social Behaviors Scale-2. Quality of life for adolescents was measured using Chinese version of the Quality of Life Scale for Children and Adolescents. To analyze the multiple mediating effects, structural equation models were used, and 95% confidence intervals were determined through bootstrap methods.ResultsThe results illustrated that school adaptation and quality of life played a significant mediating role in the effect of parent-child discrepancies in educational aspirations and physical fitness. There were three intermediary paths were confirmed: (1) discrepancies in educational aspirations → school adaptation → physical fitness (β=-0.088 SE = 0.021; p<0.01; 95% CI: -0.135, -0.05); (2) discrepancies in educational aspirations → quality of life → physical fitness (β=-0.025; SE = 0.011; p = 0.010; 95% CI: -0.050, -0.006); (3) discrepancies in educational aspirations → school adaptation→ quality of life → physical fitness (β=-0.032; SE = 0.014; p = 0.011; 95% CI: -0.061, -0.007).ConclusionThis study suggests that parents should reduce negative emotions and pressure regarding adolescents’ academic aspirations may help their children get better physical fitness.

Remote physical activity intervention to promote physical activity and health in adolescent girls (the HERizon project): a multi-arm, pilot randomised trial

BackgroundEngaging in physical activity (PA) during adolescence is beneficial for health and positive development. However, most adolescent girls have low PA levels, and there is a need for interventions outside of school hours. This pilot randomised controlled trial aimed to explore the preliminary effectiveness of three different remote PA interventions in increasing adolescent girls’ moderate-to- vigorous PA (MVPA), fitness and psychosocial outcomes.MethodsGirls living in the UK or Ireland, aged between 13 and 16 years old, who wished to increase their activity levels, were eligible for the study. Using a random number generator, participants (n = 153; 14.8y ± 1.4) were randomised into one of three 12-week intervention groups (i) PA programme, (ii) Behaviour change support, or (iii) Combined PA programme and Behaviour change support, or (iv) a Comparison group. Outcome measures included accelerometer and self-reported PA, physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness; 20 m shuttle run, muscular endurance; push up, muscular strength; long jump), and psychosocial assessments (perceived competence; body appreciation; self-esteem; behavioural regulation). Linear mixed models were used to analyse differences between each intervention arm and the comparison group immediately postintervention (12 weeks) and at follow up (3-months post-intervention), while adjusting for potential confounders.ResultsParticipation in the PA programme group was associated with higher perceived competence (0.6, 95% CI 0.1 to 1.2), identified regulation (0.7, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.1) and intrinsic motivation (0.9, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.6) at post-intervention. Participation in the Behaviour change group was associated with higher perceived competence at post-intervention (0.6, 95% CI 0.1 to 1.2), and higher push-up scores at the 3-month follow-up (4.0, 95% CI 0.0 to 7.0). Participation in the Combined group was also associated with higher perceived competence at post-intervention (0.8, 95% CI 0.2 to 1.4), and higher push-up scores at the 3-month follow-up (5.0, 95% CI 1.0 to 8.0). No other significant differences were found between the intervention arms and the comparison group.ConclusionResults suggest perceived competence increased across all intervention arms, while the PA programme group enhanced autonomous motivation in the short term. Intervention arms with behaviour change support appear most promising in improving muscular endurance. However, a larger scale trial is needed for a better understanding of between-group differences and the impact of intervention arms on MVPA and fitness, given the small sample size and short-term follow-up.

Prevalence and Associated Factors with Frailty Using the Kihon Checklist among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Taiwan.

Background and Objectives: Frailty in older adults is associated with adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to analyze the frailty status of community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan using the Kihon Checklist (KCL) and explore associations with demographic, physiological, and functional factors. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 278 community-dwelling older adults were classified as robust, prefrail, or frail based on their KCL scores. Participants underwent physical fitness assessments including muscle strength and endurance tests, walking speed tests, and flexibility tests. One-way ANOVA and logistic regression analyses were used to examine differences and associations between frailty status and physical fitness indicators. Results: 36% of participants were robust, 47.1% prefrail, and 16.9% frail. The robust group significantly outperformed the prefrail and frail groups in the 30 s sit-to-stand test, 2.44 m sit-to-walk test, and walking speed (p < 0.001). The 2.44 m sit-to-walk test was a significant predictor of prefrailty (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.02-1.36) after adjusting for other physical fitness indicators. Conclusions: Lower limb functional capacity, particularly in the 2.44 m sit-to-walk test, was significantly associated with pre-frailty among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. Early screening, the classification of frailty by the Kihon Checklist, and targeted interventions focusing on lower limb strength, endurance, and mobility are crucial for preventing and delaying frailty progression in older populations.

Physical Fitness Test Data Analysis and Training Program Recommendation Based on Machine Learning

Physical fitness is the state of being physically healthy and capable of performing daily tasks with vigor and resilience. Physical fitness and machine learning intersect in various ways, primarily through the use of wearable devices, fitness apps, and data analysis. Wearable fitness trackers equipped with sensors, such as heart rate monitors, accelerometers, and GPS trackers, collect vast amounts of data on individuals' physical activity, sleep patterns, and vital signs. The paper presents an innovative approach to physical fitness assessment and training program recommendation using the Gradient Probabilistic Automated Recommender System with Machine Learning (GPA-RS-ML). This system utilizes machine learning techniques to assess fitness data from individuals and then suggests training programs that are customized to their specific goals and needs. By incorporating gradient values and probabilistic predictions, the GPA-RS-ML algorithm offers a comprehensive and individualized approach to fitness training, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of training interventions. The study demonstrates the efficacy of the GPA-RS-ML system in accurately predicting suitable training programs for participants, considering their unique fitness profiles and preferences. This research contributes to the advancement of automated fitness assessment and recommendation systems, providing a valuable tool for fitness professionals and enthusiasts to optimize fitness outcomes and improve adherence to training regimens.

SPIKES: Skills and Performance Inventory as Kinesiological Assessment for Empowerment of Sepaktakraw Athletes

This research presents a comprehensive assessment of Sepaktakraw athletes at Batangas State University (BatStateU) TNEU, aiming to enhance athlete development through evidence-based methodologies. Recognizing the global trend towards universities' pivotal role in athlete development, the study addresses the diverse landscape of sports programs, particularly focusing on Sepaktakraw in the Philippines. BatStateU's visionary 5-year development plan emphasizes creating champion athletes, aligning with global trends and emphasizing sports infrastructure and training programs. However, the study identifies an opportunity to enhance training programs by introducing the SPIKES program, incorporating kinesiological assessments for a more scientific and tailored approach. Using a descriptive survey methodology, the research integrates Physical Fitness and Skill-specific Performance Tests to evaluate Sepaktakraw athletes comprehensively. Anthropometric profiling revealed diverse body compositions, while physical fitness assessments highlighted variations in speed, agility, strength, and more. Skill-specific performance evaluations in serving, spiking, and game-specific skills provided insights into athletes' proficiency levels. Results categorized athletes into four kinesiological profiles (A, B, C, D), guiding the design of personalized training programs. The Skill-Specific Training Program, unfolding over 12 weeks, targets specific improvements in physical fitness and skills. This evidence-based approach offers a systematic framework for optimizing Sepaktakraw athletes' performance, providing valuable insights for coaches, trainers, and athletes alike. The study not only enhances BatStateU's athlete development initiatives but also serves as a model for personalized and scientifically rigorous training programs in Sepaktakraw and potentially other sports.

Aerobic fitness predicted by demographics, anthropometrics, health behaviour, physical activity and muscle fitness in male and female recruits entering military service

IntroductionThe physical and mental training load can be high during military service. Therefore, tailored preconditioning programmes based on assessment of physical fitness could increase readiness for military service, especially among...

The Reliability of Specific Physical Fitness Assessments in Elite Female Chinese Wrestlers

The Reliability of Specific Physical Fitness Assessments in Elite Female Chinese Wrestlers

Physical Fitness Testing Concerns: Bullying and Inclusion

In February 2020, California Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed budget recommended suspending the state-mandated physical fitness test (FitnessGram®️) for three years due to concerns over bullying and test discrimination against students who identify as gender non-binary and students with disabilities. The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of California physical educators’ perceptions of the state-mandated physical fitness assessment. Snowball sampling was used to recruit 1,082 participants who completed a survey with quanti-tative and open-ended questions. Analysis of the open-ended questions indicated the two main themes were “how to improve fitness testing” and “challenges in fitness testing.” It is imperative to consider the needs of all students, including those who identify as gender non-binary or have a disability, and ensure physical fitness testing is conducted in a safe and welcoming environment.

Health-Related Quality of Life and its Determinants among School-going Adolescents: A Cross-sectional Study.

Adolescents experience rapid physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth in their transition from childhood to adulthood, affecting health outcomes and well-being. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a useful indicator of health outcomes, assessed in the current study along with associated determinants. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 634 randomly selected adolescents from 13 randomly selected schools in Gharwal division, Uttarakhand, India, from August 2019 to September 2020. The students studying in the 8th-11th standard and those providing assent and consent from their parents were included in the study. They were screened using the short version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire. Along with physical activity and fitness assessment, the Global School-based Student Health Survey questionnaire was administered. The transformed HRQoL domain scores were calculated using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. A univariate and multivariable linear regression model was applied to identify the determinants of HRQoL using SPSS version 23. The study included 324 (51.1%) boys and 310 (48.9%) girls. The mean age of the students was 14.4±1.4 years. The highest mean score was 72.3±21.0 for the social relationship domain and the lowest was 55.6±15.0 for the physical domain. The age, parents using any form of tobacco, a history of ever-use of alcohol and physical fitness were significantly associated with HRQoL domain scores. The non-dominant back stretch test was also significantly associated (Beta coefficient; SE, P-value) with physical (-4.1; 1.4, 0.002), psychosocial (-3.9; 1.5, 0.010) and environmental (-3.5; 1.4, 0.014) domain scores. All domains of HRQoL need to be improved and should address the psychological, social, and mental well-being of adolescents. Physical activity and fitness of students emerged as a strong modifiable predictor affecting almost all the domains of HRQoL, warranting its promotion in schools and the promotion of healthy behavior among parents and adolescents.

ASSESSMENT OF PHYSICAL FITNESS OF MATURE WOMEN WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF POSTURE

Relevance of the research topic. The systematization and generalization of a wide layer of both theoretical developments and practical achievements in the field of physical culture and sports serve as a basis for stating that maturity is the longest period of ontogenesis, characterized by the tendency for a person to achieve the optimal level of development of his spiritual, intellectual and physical potential. Against this background, the age of maturity in women, according to numerous data from representatives of the scientific community, is a period of motor deficit. The consequences of the latter include, first of all, the gradual unfolding of involutional processes, negative changes in the hormonal background, the appearance of excess weight, a decrease in the elasticity of connective tissue, the appearance of the first signs of structural and functional disorders of the spine and joints. The purpose of the article is to determine the level of physical fitness of women aged 36-40 with different types of posture. Methods. Theoretical analysis of special scientific and methodical literature, pedagogical testing, methods of mathematical statistics. The results of the work. The assessment of physical fitness of women in the second half of mature age showed the following. Firstly, it was found that according to tests of strength, endurance and flexibility, women aged 36-38 were more physically fit, performing pull-ups in a lying position mainly at an average level, tilting the torso forward from a sitting position and lifting the torso in a sitting position at a sufficient level. In contrast, the physical fitness of women aged 39-40 years was much worse, in particular, most of them performed lying pull-ups at a low level, torso bending forward from a sitting position and lifting the torso in a sitting position at an average level. Secondly, the comparison of groups of women aged 36-38 and 39-40 years, taking into account the type of their posture, did not reveal any differences in pairs of different ages of each type. At the same time, it was found that women with normal posture performed much better than the other groups in exercises such as flexion and extension of the arms in a lying position, pull-ups in a lying position, and women aged 36-38 years were superior in the test of lifting the torso into a seated position. Accordingly, women with a round, flat back and scoliotic posture were less physically prepared to perform these exercises.

Physical fitness assessment of a Venezuelan industrial direct labor force population

Introduction The purpose of this research is to evaluate the physical fitness variables of Venezuelan workers, taking into account exercise batteries or submaximal tests that have been little used in the industrial environment.Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional, epidemiological and field study was conducted in a Venezuelan population of industrial direct labor workers in bipedestation. The sample consisted of 185 workers (M: 136, W: 49) in the main industrial areas of the state of Aragua-Venezuela.Results: Results were obtained on the physical fitness of Venezuelan industrial direct labor workers presenting average results in both sexes. Calculations for obtaining HRmax and RAC in ml O2 min-1 kg-1 were taken into account.Conclusions: A population of industrial direct labor was observed, of low physical capacity with values associated with age (42.87 M-38.43W), physical wear and tear, poor physical fitness habits, poor dietary habits and decrease in muscle mass.