Changes in Anthropometric Measurements and Physical Fitness of Polish Students in 20-Year Period

Abstract

Background: Intergenerational changes are still being recorded worldwide, although their magnitude and direction may vary in different countries. The aim of this study was to determine changes in the magnitude and direction of changes in the body morphology and motor abilities of physically active adults over 20 years. Methods: Two hundred and fifty-two individuals aged 18–28 years volunteered to participate in the study. The changes were analyzed over a 20-year period (March 2001; P1 vs. March 2022; P2). The measured parameters were body height, weight, and body fat. Further, hand grip strength with dynamometer measurement, a sit-up test, a sit and reach test, and a standing long jump were performed to examine motor abilities. The results of the conducted tests were compared between subjects from both periods. Results: Our study confirms changes in trends concerning body morphology and motor ability performance. Higher values of body mass index and body fat were observed in P2 women, whereas these differences were not significant in men. Additionally, in terms of physical performance, the P2 group noted worse results than their peers from the past. Conclusion: Despite young adults claiming to have similar physical activity levels to those observed in the past, they demonstrate poorer physical performance and higher body fat levels. The observed changes can be considered negative.