European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

HEALTH RELATED PHYSICAL FITNESS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY STUDENTS IN MONTENEGRO

Vesna Samardžic*

ABSTRACT

Physiotherapist are aspected to have a good level of physical fitness to meet their proffesion demands. Physiotherapy professional bodies recommend for physiotherapist to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. As the physical fitness is the measurable outcome of physical activity and exercise it is important to evaluate physical fitness level. Physiotherapy students, future healthcare providers, need to carry out healthy lifestyle routine in everyday life so they can meet the demands of the profession. The aim of the study was to find out the health related physical fitness of physiotherapy students in Montenegro. The measured level of physical fitness was determined by using Boddy mass index, Waist hip ratio, Sit and reach test, Scratch test, Push-ups and Squat test. A total of 62 students (42 female, 20 male) of physical therapy aged from 19 to 25 years were enrolled in this study. Body composition of students was satisfactory. The muscle endurance was better in lower extremity then in upper extremity. The flexibility was better in upper extremity and better in female students. The health related physical fitness level was not satisfactory as compared to the physical demands of the profession. Our results suggest to improve the fitness level of physiotherapy students. The study reinforces the need to change students attitude toward regular physical activity.

Keywords: physical fitness, physiotherapy students, muscular endurance, flexibility, body commposition.