2022, Vol. 9, Issue 5, Part C

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the health-related physical fitness (HRPF) components among school students in the Saharanpur district and to identify variations across age and gender.

Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 200 students (100 boys and 100 girls) aged 13–17 years from four secondary schools. The AAHPERD Health-Related Physical Fitness Test Battery was used to measure five key components: cardiorespiratory endurance (600-yard run), muscular strength (hand grip), muscular endurance (sit-ups), flexibility (sit and reach), and body composition (BMI). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and an independent t-test to compare mean scores between boys and girls.

Findings: Results indicated that boys performed significantly better in cardiorespiratory endurance and muscular strength tests, while girls exhibited higher flexibility scores. No significant difference was found in BMI or muscular endurance. Overall, the average HRPF scores suggested that about 62% of students met satisfactory health-fitness standards.

Conclusion: The study revealed moderate levels of health-related physical fitness among adolescents in Saharanpur. Gender-based variations highlight the need for balanced physical education programs that promote both strength and flexibility development. Schools should prioritize regular fitness assessments and physical activity interventions to enhance student health outcomes.