A Study of Physical Fitness Index in Physiotherapy Students by Using Modified Harvard Step Test

Background and Objective: Physical fitness implies performing an inactive task efficiently besides sense of physical, mental and social well-being and the ability to deal with crisis demanding unusual physical endeavor. In this study, the physiotherapy students of age group 17 to 22 years of Visakha Academy of Paramedical Sciences College of Physiotherapy were taken to assess their physical fitness.

Methods: An observational study was done in 50 young male and female physiotherapy students by using Modified Harvard Step test to measure Physical Fitness Index.

Data Analysis: Statistical analysis was done using Chi Square test.

Results: Statistical analysis shows that physical fitness in physiotherapy students is not satisfactory. The Chi Square values show association between body mass index and physical fitness levels in physiotherapy students.

Conclusion: Physical fitness of physiotherapy students in Visakha Academy of Paramedical Sciences College of Physiotherapy, is not satisfactory. Subjects with higher BMI had lower physical fitness.