Physical Fitness Differences between Athletes and Non-Athletes at the University Level: A Gender-Based Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60081/SSHA.3.1.2025.421-427Keywords:
Physical Fitness, Flexibility, Balance, Lower Body Strength, University athletesAbstract
Background: Physical fitness is a critical determinant of athletic performance and general health. However, differences in flexibility, balance, and lower-body power between athletes and non-athletes, especially by gender and competitive level, require further investigation. Objective: This study aimed to compare key fitness components—flexibility, balance, and lower-body strength—between university-level athletes and non-athletes, with a focus on sex-based differences. Methods: Eighty students from Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh (N = 80), participated in the study. They were evenly divided into four groups: male athletes, male non-athletes, female athletes, and female non-athletes (n = 20 per group). Anthropometric data were recorded, and fitness tests included the Sit-and-Reach test (flexibility), One-Leg Stork Stand Test (balance), and Standing Broad Jump (leg power). Independent t-tests were used to compare athletes and non-athletes within each sex. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Male athletes had significantly greater flexibility t(38) = 5.55, p < .001, balance t(38) = 8.24, p < .001, and leg power t(38) = 8.07, p < .001 compared to male non-athletes. Female athletes also outperformed non-athletes in flexibility t(38) = 4.26, p < .001, balance t(38) = 10.26, p < .001, and leg power t(38) = 13.13, p < .001. Conclusion: University athletes, regardless of gender, demonstrated significantly better flexibility, balance, and lower-body power than their non-athlete peers. These findings emphasize the physical benefits of athletic training and support incorporating structured fitness programs into university wellness initiatives.
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