Impact of Regular Sports Participation on Body Composition and Physical Fitness in Adolescents

Jojibabu Abbadasari

doi:10.71366/ijwos03022669126

Authors

Jojibabu Abbadasari SA-Physical Education, A.R.D.G.K Municipal Corporation High School, Eluru, W.G (Dist), A.P.
Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71366/ijwos03022669126

Keywords:

Sports Participation, Body Composition, Physical Fitness, Adolescents, BMI, Health, Andhra Pradesh, Physical Activity.

Abstract

The present study was conducted to examine the impact of regular sports participation on body composition and physical fitness among adolescents in Andhra Pradesh State. Physical activity and sports participation play a vital role in promoting healthy growth, improving fitness levels, and preventing lifestyle-related health problems during adolescence. The study aimed to compare body composition and selected physical fitness variables between adolescents who regularly participate in sports and those who do not. A total of 200 adolescent students (boys and girls) aged 13–18 years were selected from various schools and junior colleges across Andhra Pradesh using a random sampling technique. The participants were divided into two groups: regular sports participants and non-participants. Body composition variables such as Body Mass Index (BMI), body fat percentage, and lean body mass were assessed. Physical fitness variables, including speed, agility, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance were measured using standardized fitness tests. The collected data were analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques. The findings revealed that adolescents who regularly participated in sports demonstrated significantly better body composition profiles, including lower body fat percentage and healthier BMI values, compared to non-participants. Furthermore, sports participants showed superior performance in all selected physical fitness components, particularly in cardiovascular endurance, agility, speed, and muscular strength. The study concluded that regular participation in sports has a positive influence on both body composition and physical fitness among adolescents in Andhra Pradesh. It is recommended that schools, parents, and policymakers encourage greater involvement in organized sports and physical activity programs to enhance the health, fitness, and overall well-being of adolescents.