Author(s): ALJUHANI, L., ALAHMADI, M.A., Institution: TAIBAH UNIVERSITY, Country: SAUDI ARABIA, Abstract-ID: 2282

INTRODUCTION:
In 2018, Saudi Arabia introduced physical education for females in public schools along with launching a new Sport Science and Physical Activity (SSPA) major for Saudi females at several Saudi Universities, including Taibah University in Madinah city, western Saudi Arabia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to measure the main health-related physical fitness components among Saudi female SSPA students at Taibah University.
METHODS:
75 female university students (mean ± SD, age, 18.52 ± 0.83 years; body mass, 52.72 ± 10.22 kg; height, 158.76 ± 5.38 cm) took part in this study. Cardiorespiratory fitness was determined using the Queen’s College Step Test to estimate maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), hand grip strength was evaluated using a dynamometer, muscle endurance was estimated by the push-up test, and flexibility was evaluated with the sit and reach test. Descriptive statistics were reported as mean values and standard deviation.
RESULTS:
The mean (± SD) VO2max was 35.05 ± 3.65 (ml.kg.min). The mean (± SD) hand grip strength on the right was 17.54 ± 4.32 (kg), and on the left was 17.60 ± 4.97 (kg). Finally, the mean (± SD) muscle endurance was 16 ± 9 (repetitions), and flexibility was 28.80 ± 9.86 (cm).
CONCLUSION:
The study concluded that hand grip strength and muscle endurance were lower while cardiorespiratory fitness and flexibility were within the normal range among Saudi female SSPA students compared to their international counterparts, as reported in the literature. Resistance training aimed at enhancing muscular strength and endurance should be the main component of fitness programs.