Fitness Assessment of Exercise Science 101 Students

In this study, students in the Exercise Science 101 class at Winthrop University will undergo various assessments of their fitness levels. The testing will include weight and height measurements to determine body mass index (BMI). The students will also undergo a three-site skinfold test to determine their body-fat percentages. Their waist and hip circumferences will be measured to determine their waist-to-hip ratios. A waist-to-hip ratio is a good indicator for risk of potential chronic disease, such as heart disease and diabetes. The students will perform a one-mile walk test to assess their aerobic fitness and a push-up and partial curl-up test to assess their muscular endurance. Then, the flexibility of students’ lower backs and hamstrings will be measured through the sit-and-reach test. These tests will show a good indication of an overall fitness profile of the Exercise Science 101 students that will be useful to the students and will help the department to determine program improvements