Assessment of the General Health of Students of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences – University of Samarra According to Some Physiological and Physical Indicators

Abstract

This research was based on studying the physiological and physical fitness of students in the College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences of the University of Samarra in terms of body mass index (BMI), physical fitness, and cardiorespiratory efficiency in relation to four academic levels. The study sample had 216 students. To determine the cardiorespiratory capacity and physical fitness we used the Harvard Step Test and the Wingate anaerobic test.  The result showed that most of the students had a healthy body composition according to the BMI criteria, and their physical fitness and cardiorespiratory efficiency showed a gradual increase upon academic levels, which could be attributed to the continuous engagement of organized physical activities within the academic curriculum.  It was also found that, there is a relationship between aerobic and anaerobic systems, which assist the body in adapting and making the students more consistent. Based on the results, one can recommend continuing to work on the development of effective exercise programs, conducting regular assessments, and stimulating interest in sports events in universities and extracurricular sports activities to improve fitness and overall health.