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Comparative Study on Health-Related Fitness: Does
Participation in a Youth Nursery Influence the Level
of H.R.F. in our Secondary School Boys? |
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ABSTRACT of Thesis by
Bajada Josef & DeGabriele Greg
The authors are concerned that participation in
youth sport nurseries is not necessarily conducive
to better health-related fitness levels in Maltese
boys. Thus, it is essential to compare H.R.F. levels
between two different groups – participants
and non-participants. The literature review tries
to deal with an analysis of studies conducted regarding
fitness and health. It reviews various investigations
which studied the testing of health-related fitness,
analyses the test batteries existing to date, and
justifies the choice of tests which were used for
the current study.
Due to the fact that some schools may be more ‘sport-oriented’ than
others, two particular schools were taken into
consideration: one is a church school which is
perceived as being sport-oriented and having
some of the best facilities on the island, and
the second is a state junior lyceum which may
not have the same orientation. 500 boys were
tested in three major H.R.F. components; namely
cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and muscle
power. Their body mass index was also calculated.
Anthropometric measurements show that participants
score better than non-participants in all tests.
However, all scores are quite low. The literature
reviewed suggests that this negative situation
is liable to transmit itself into adulthood unless
serious steps are taken to avoid this..
A number of recommendations are proposed. These
are directed towards youth sport nurseries, the
schools, the parents and the health authorities.
It is hoped that this will act as an eye-opener
to the relevant authorities so that the proposed
action will be taken as soon as possible.
B.Ed.(Hons)
Keywords:
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