Abstract

Background: Increased cardiovascular mortality in young adult due to overweight and obesity.

Aim and Objective: This study aims to assess the association of body fat and lean body mass on maximal oxygen consumption (cardiorespiratory fitness) in young adults of 18–20 years.

Materials and Methods: Sixty-six (n = 66) young adults in the age group of 18–20 of both the genders were included in the study. Total body weight was measured using weighing scale and height was measured using stadiometer. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using formula weight (kg)/height (mt2). Body fat was measured using skinfold thickness with the help of calipers using Durnin-Womersley equation. Lean body mass was calculated by subtracting total body weight with body fat mass. Maximal oxygen consumption was calculated using indirect method Rockport 1 mile walk test. Pearson’s correlation matrix was used to assess the correlation between the variables.

Results: The study shows that there exists a strong negative correlation between body fat and BMI with maximal oxygen consumption (r = –0.443: P = 0.00**) (r= −0.548: P = 0.00*).

Conclusion: Increase in BMI, especially because of increased body fat, leads to reduced maximal oxygen consumption (cardiorespiratory fitness) in young adults.

Key words: Cardiorespiratory Fitness; Submaximal Exercise; Skinfold Thickness