Health And Fitness Determinants In Higher Education Students, A Correlation Study

Abstract

This study analyzed correlations between fitness parameters in 29 first-year physiotherapy university students (15 males, 14 females; age 20.5±1.9 years) to understand interconnections between physical fitness components. Participants underwent tests for: dominant and non-dominant handgrip strength, single-leg stability, spirometry, sit-and-reach, and mid-thigh pull test. Statistical analysis identified significant correlations (p<0.05) between parameters. Results show moderate significant correlations between handgrip strength and forced vital capacity (FVC) for both dominant (r=0.448, p=0.015) and non-dominant sides (r=0.471, p=0.010). Handgrip strength demonstrates strong correlations with maximal strength in mid-thigh pull test (dominant: r=0.881, p=0.000; non-dominant: r=0.869, p=0.000). FVC correlates moderately with maximal strength (r=0.451, p=0.014). Sit-and-reach shows moderate negative correlation with sway path length in dominant single-leg stability (r=-0.443, p=0.016).

Conclusions indicate that higher vital capacity values influence overall neuromuscular fitness in university students. These findings should be considered for enhancing physical training programs in university students.

The study demonstrates that respiratory function, particularly FVC, serves as a key determinant linking various fitness components. The strong relationship between handgrip strength and overall muscular strength suggests these parameters may serve as reliable indicators of general physical fitness status in young adults transitioning to university life.