To assess the prevalence of physical activity and physical fitness in young adults: A cross-sectional study

Background: Understanding the prevalence of physical activity and fitness in the young population is crucial for establishing a benchmark for current baseline levels and monitoring future changes. Aim: This study was designed to examine multiple aspects of fitness relevant to health, including physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness and body composition. Methods: A total of 419 students between the ages of 18 and 25 years were screened in this cross-sectional survey after obtaining approval from the institution’s ethical board (RUHS-CMS/Ethics Comm-2018/148). The ‘Global Physical Activity Questionnaire’ was used to evaluate PA. Body fat percentage was measured using a Harpenden skinfold calliper, followed by measurement of VO 2 max using a gas analyser and handgrip strength assessment with the help of a computerised dynamometer. Results: The results showed that most of the male study population (62.9%) was highly active, and most of the females (59.7%) were active. The majority of males (55.6%) belonged to the athlete category, and females (32.6%) belonged to the average category of body fat distribution. Most males (27.6%) were in the fair category, whereas most females (32.6%) were in the good category of VO 2 max. The majority of the study population (male, 76.4%; female, 78.5%) were in the normal category. Physical activity was moderately positively correlated with VO 2 max and handgrip strength ( r = 0.429 and r = 0.408) and negatively correlated with body fat percentage ( r = −0.315). Conclusion: This study provides a baseline understanding of the prevalence of physical activity and fitness amongst young adults. This information can be beneficial for assessing a person’s fitness level and promoting physical activity and lifestyle modifications to prevent cardiovascular and metabolic issues.