A comparative study of physical fitness parameters in urban and rural school children of North India

Abstract

This study aims to compare physical fitness parameters between urban and rural school children in North India. A total of 400 students (200 urban and 200 rural), aged 10-15 years, were assessed on various fitness parameters including Body Mass Index (BMI), flexibility, muscular strength, cardiovascular endurance, and agility. Data was collected using standardized fitness tests such as sit and reach, shuttle run, push-ups, and 600-meter run. The findings reveal significant disparities, with rural children generally exhibiting superior muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance, while urban children showed better BMI scores and flexibility. These results indicate the influence of lifestyle, environment, and socio-economic factors on physical fitness and suggest the need for targeted interventions to promote balanced physical development across different demographics.