Effects of Strength Training on Physical Fitness and Obesity of College Girls of Yazman, Bahawalpur, Pakistan

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of strength training on physical fitness and obesity of college girls. The selected (n = 70) participants were girls' students of Yazman, Bahawalpur. The selected variables were 600m race for endurance, 30m dash for speed, standing broad jump for leg power, zigzag run for agility, sit and reach for flexibility, and handgrip strength. The body composition was estimated through five skin folds, seven girths, three breadths, and the lengths of upper and lower limbs. Eight weeks training schedule was adopted, (five days in a week) which comprises of different physical activities such as a 400m race, sit-ups, skipping, matches of badminton and volleyball. A paired t-test was applied to examine the effect of training on body composition and physical fitness of college girls. The result showed that strength training significantly affects bicep skin fold, hip girth, chest girth, 30m race, and flexibility. It is concluded that strength training increases physical fitness and reduces the body fat of college girls. The comparative analysis results revealed that after eight-week strength training, the college girls' students become physically active, reduced body fats, and assist in weight management.