A Study to Assess Physical Fitness Index using Modified Harvard Step Test in Relation with Body Mass Index Among B.Sc. Nursing 1st Year Students in a Selected College at Bhilai, (C.G.)

Abstract

The Physical Fitness index measures the physical fitness for Muscular work and the ability to recover from the work. The present study was undertaken to assess the physical fitness index using Modified Harvard Step Test in B.Sc. Nursing 1^st year students age group of 17 to 20 years. Method: Descriptive study was done on 60 B.Sc. Nursing 1^st year students and Physical Fitness Index was measured using Modified Harvard step test. Data Analysis: Statistical analysis was done using descriptive analysis and Chi square test. Result: Statistical analysis shows that physical fitness in B.Sc. Nursing 1^st year students is not satisfactory. Maximum students 30(50%) were having poor physical fitness index, 25(41.67%) were having low average physical fitness and 5(8.33%) were having average physical fitness index Maximum students 44(73.33%) were having normal body mass index, 10(16.67%) were underweight, 5(8.33%) were pre obesity/overweight, 1(1.67%) were obese. Correlation between physical fitness index and body mass index of B.Sc. Nursing 1st year students shows that there is a moderate negative correlation between PFI & BMI as r = -0.48 which means as BMI increases, PFI decreases. Conclusion: physical fitness of B.Sc. Nursing 1^st year students in selected college at Bhilai is not satisfactory.