PENGURUSAN SENAMAN MENGGUNAKAN BERAT BADAN DI RUMAH BAGI MENINGKATKAN KEKUATAN OTOT DAN DAYA TAHAN DALAM KALANGAN PELAJAR UNIVERSITI

Abstract

Physical activity improves physical health and makes our bodies perform more efficiently. Physical activity benefits the body through physiological changes which occur as a result. Physical fitness is a term that refers to the state of one's body's health and well-being. Increasing body weight and fat mass are always linked to obesity which are growing public health problems in many developing countries, and Malaysia is no exception. This problem would affect health related fitness such as muscular strength and endurance. The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of bodyweight exercise at home on muscular strength and endurance among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 24 university students participated in the bodyweight exercise and a control group were recruited (n = 24). The bodyweight exercise group received an eight-week intervention on an average of 50 minutes to 60 minutes of bodyweight exercises per session. Two different sets of bodyweight exercises were conducted in alternative weeks. Each set consisted of 6 exercises for the upper body, lower body and core muscles. The sit-up, push-up, and plank tests were used to measure muscular strength and endurance. Statistical analysis of Mixed between-within subjects analysis of variance was used to investigate significant differences following bodyweight exercise. Participants in the bodyweight group showed a significant improvement in muscular strength and endurance after eight weeks of training. The sit-up and plank tests showed significant differences in the bodyweight group (p < 0.05). Bodyweight exercises can be performed anywhere. These exercises are suitable for beginners of all ages to increase muscular strength and endurance.