Cardio respiratory endurance, flexibility and balance among Kashmiri college-going female students as per fit India fitness protocol

Abstract

Physical fitness is a vital indicator of health and functional efficiency, particularly among young adult females. Sedentary lifestyles, academic pressure, and Socio-cultural constraints have contributed to declining fitness levels among college-going girls in India. The present study aimed to assess cardio respiratory endurance, flexibility, and balance among Kashmiri college-going female students as per the Fit India Fitness Protocol. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 500 female students aged 18-25 years selected from various colleges of the Kashmir Valley. Cardio respiratory endurance was measured using the 2 km Run/Walk test, flexibility using the V-Sit and Reach test, and balance using the Flamingo Balance Test. Descriptive statistics was used for data analysis. The results revealed varying levels of fitness, with a considerable proportion of participants exhibiting below- average performance in the selected components. The findings highlight the need for structured physical activity interventions and fitness awareness programs in higher education institutions to improve the physical fitness and overall well-being of female students in Kashmir.