ROLE OF REGULAR EXERCISE ON VO2 MAX AND PHYSIOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AMONG RESIDENTIAL AND NONRESIDENTIAL SCHOOL CHILDREN OF BIJAPUR

Abstract

Background and Objective: Maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂ max in ml/kg/min) reflects the physical fitness of an individual. Physical fitness acquired in school children provides healthy impact on cardio respiratory system. So, our study aimed to find out the role of regular exercise and nutrition on VO₂max and physiological parameters among Residential and Non-Residential school children of Bijapur. Methods and Material: A cross sectional study involving 200 healthy school children aged 12 to 16 years. The study group was divided into two i.e Group I (n=100, Residential school children) and Group II (n=100, Nonresidential school children). VO₂ max was determined by Harvard Step Test and physiological parameters like pulse rate (PR), respiratory rate (RR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded by using the standard techniques. Statistical analysis done by using SPSS version 9.0. Results: We found statistically significant higher values of VO₂ max in Group I compared to Group II. The physiological parameters have been compared between Groups I and II. Excepting for PR and RR, all other physiological parameters such as SBP, DBP and MAP have been significantly increased in Group I compared to Group II. Conclusion: Possibly, regular physical exercise in residential school children responsible for increase in the VO₂ max, decrease in the PR and RR and increase in SBP, DBP, MAP.