Assessment of Cardio-Respiratory Fitness-With Special Reference to Body Composition Profile of Bahir Dar University Boys

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between cardio-respiratory fitness and body composition among second- and third-year students at Bahir Dar University Sport Academy. A total of 30 students were selected using stratified random sampling to ensure representation across different academic years and fitness levels. Data collection involved various morpho-physiological parameters, including height, weight, body fat percentage, lean body mass, body mass index (BMI), somatotyping, maximum aerobic capacity, anaerobic threshold, and heart rate, utilizing equipment such as audiometers, weighing scales, sliding calipers, and flexible Harpenden skinfold calipers.The results indicated a mean BMI of 22.04 ± 2.01 kg/m², with body fat percentage at 20.9 ± 4.68 and lean body mass at 52.04 ± 10.25 kg. The subjects exhibited higher lean body mass, contributing to improved aerobic fitness. Somatotyping revealed mean values of endomorphic, mesomorphic, and ectomorphic components as 5.34 ± 1.56, 5.70 ± 0.87, and 3.0 ± 1.15, respectively. A negative correlation (-0.138) was found between BMI and maximum aerobic capacity, while positive correlations were observed between BMI and anaerobic threshold heart rate, maximum heart rate, and heart rate reserve (0.46, 0.07, and 0.39).The study concludes that the autonomic nervous system significantly regulates cardiovascular health and energy expenditure, thereby influencing body composition. Increased physical activity is essential for managing body fat, enhancing glucose control, and improving mental health, particularly among youth. Promoting active lifestyles is crucial to mitigate the risks associated with physical inactivity.