Cardiorespiratory Fitness in University Level Volleyball Players and its Correlation with Body Fat

Abstract

Abstract Introduction. The present study was aimed to compare the cardiorespiratory fitness levels (VO2max) between university level male and female volleyball players and to find its correlation with percentage body fat. Material and Methods. In the present cross-sectional study, male and female volleyball players (n = 15 each) aged 18-25 years were randomly selected from Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, India. An equal number of sedentary individuals were also selected who did not indulge in any vigorous physical activity or training. Body height, body weight, body mass index (BMI), % lean body mass of players and sedentary individuals were recorded using standard methods. Percentage body fat was calculated using the sum of four skinfolds and VO2max was recorded using Queen’s college step test. Data were analysed using SPSS software version 20.0. Unpaired t-test was used for comparison between players and sedentary individuals and two-way ANOVA was used to examine interaction of status (active players and sedentary individuals) and gender on VO2max. Results. Players had higher mean values for % lean body mass and VO2max. Statistically, highly significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between male and female players for all variables except BMI. Players had better cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) as compared to their sedentary counterparts. Conclusions. Significant differences exist between players and sedentary individuals for percentage body fat and percentage lean body mass. Cardiorespiratory fitness of players is negatively correlated with percentage body fat. Players have higher VO2max as compared to their sedentary counterparts.