Physical effort and its relationship to the performance of some fundamental locomotor movements among obese female students compared to non-obese female students

Abstract

Physical effort is one of the factors influencing motor performance, and its response varies according to body composition. This study aims to identify the relationship between physical effort and the performance of some basic transitional movements (standing long jump, 20m zigzag run, dynamic balance on a course) in obese female students (body fat ≥30%) compared to non-obese ones (body fat <25%) at the university stage. Methods: A descriptive correlational comparative method was used on a sample of 60 female students (30 obese, 30 non-obese) from the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, aged 19-22 years. Physical effort was measured using the Harvard step test to calculate the cardiorespiratory fitness index, and transitional movement performance was assessed through standardized tests. Results: The results showed statistically significant differences between the two groups in the physical effort index in favor of non-obese students (p < 0.01), a moderate positive correlation between physical effort level and long jump and balance performance in the non-obese group, while the correlation was weak and non-significant in the obese group. Non-obese students also outperformed in running speed. The proposed training program for obese students showed significant improvements in all indicators (PFI by 21.2%, long jump by 11.8%, reduction in zigzag run time by 12.4%, balance by 29.2%). Conclusion: High body fat percentage negatively affects physical effort, which is reflected in the performance of transitional movements. The condition of obese students can be improved through a specialized training program. Recommendations: The necessity of designing special training programs for obese female students to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and lower limb muscle strength and motor system.