Evaluation of cardiorespiratory fitness among undergraduates of Rehman Medical Institute: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Cardiorespiratory fitness is the capability of the circulatory and respiratory system to supply oxygen to the body. It is the interplay between the cardiac and pulmonary systems to ensure an effective supply of oxygen to the body. In the young generation, cardiorespiratory fitness predicts several health conditions, such as cardiometabolic health and mental health. This study was designed to determine the cardiorespiratory fitness among the undergraduate students of Rehman Medical Institute.

Methods: This research study was cross-sectional in which 322 students were recruited from five colleges of Rehman Medical Institute (RMC, RCRS, RCD, RCN, RCAHS), and systematic sampling was used. Data was gathered using a self-administered questionnaire and a 3-minute step test. The analysis was done using SPSS version 22.

Results: Out of a total population of 322, the maximum number of participants, 41.6% (n=134), were in excellent fitness levels, and the least number of participants were in the poor fitness category with a percentage of 1.9% (n=6). Among the five colleges of RMI, Rehman College of Allied Health Sciences (RCAHS) ranked first with the highest excellent fitness score of 38.8%, while Rehman College of Rehabilitation Sciences (RCRS) ranked last with an excellent fitness score of 9.7%.

Conclusion: This thorough study brought us a set of knowledge regarding the cardiorespiratory fitness of students. From the present study, it is concluded that the majority of undergraduate students had excellent fitness scores, with a percentage of 41.6% and Rehman College of Allied Health Sciences had the highest excellent fitness score, which is 38.8%.