Physical fitness in relation to body composition (with emphasis on endurance) and frequency of training outside school

Abstract

In the course of this study, physical fitness in relation to body composition (with emphasis on endurance) and frequency of training outside school has been investigated. The major objective of this dissertation is to find out the level of fitness of the students, emphasising on endurance compared with their level of activity outside school. Physical fitness, or its lack, exercises a significant influence on everyone's overall health. Several medical problems such as obesity, heart diseases and its attendant complications can be reduced by appropriate exercise. Furthermore physical activity benefit young people in maintaining a proper growth. Although most of the major problems in youth are not related to low level of physical activity, the habits and attitudes about activity and fitness that are established in childhood may have an important influence on lifetime activity patterns. A study was conducted through a questionnaire and a fitness test among form 3 students in 6 different secondary schools in Malta. The results revealed that the children who participated in the most physical activity performed best in the test. Consequently, it is of utmost importance to stress on lifetime physical activities which may persist into adulthood. A major part of the physical education curriculum should emphasise further on health related fitness particularly on fitness testing which until now has not been given its due importance.