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Physical Fitness in South Indian Adolescents by Vo2 max

In this study the physical fitness of 100 healthy adolescents (50 boys/50 girls) aged 12-16 yrs were assessed for physical fitness by measuring Vo2max using the treadmill and related with BMI, heart rate and waist circumference. 27% of adolescents had achieved an average to good Vo2max and 73% low – fair Vo2max. The boys had attained better Vo2max than girls. The Vo2 max in boys and girls increased from a BMI of 15-16kg/m2 to reach a peak at 17-19kg/m2 and 18-19 kg/m2 respectively and thereafter showed a decline. A linear relationship between Vo2 max and peak heart rate was maintained in both. The Vo2 max was reached at a waist circumference of 60-65cm and 65-70cm in boys and girls respectively and thereafter decreased. This study shows that physical fitness of South Indian adolescents was less and a normal BMI and waist circumference are necessary for achieving a good Vo2max.