CARDIO- RESPIRATORY FITNESS OF PHYSIOTHERAPY PROFESSIONAL’S IN KAMRUP METRO-A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background:The demand for physiotherapists is increasing steadily, highlighting the need for optimal physical fitness to perform their professional duties. However, fitness levels are rarely evaluated in practice. This study aimed to assess the cardiorespiratory fitness of physiotherapy professionals in Kamrup Metro.To evaluate the cardio respiratory fitness of physiotherapy professionals in Kamrup Metro using the Harvard Step Test. Methodology: Sixty physiotherapy professionals aged 25–45 years were conveniently selected from hospitals, private clinics, and physiotherapy colleges in Kamrup Metro, based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated, and cardio respiratory fitness was assessed using the Harvard Step Test. Descriptive statistics and the Physical Fitness Index (PFI) were analyzed. Pearson’s bivariate correlation was used to assess the relationships between BMI & VO₂ max, BMI & PFI, and VO₂ max & PFI. Results: The results indicated poor cardio respiratory fitness among physiotherapy professionals, as reflected by low PFI scores. Correlation analysis showed a negligible negative correlation between VO₂ max and BMI (r = -0.136), and between BMI and PFI (r = -0.462). A small positive correlation was found between VO₂ max and PFI (r = 0.040). However, these correlations were not statistically significant (p > 0.05), except for the relationship between BMI and PFI, which was significant (p = 0.001). Conclusion: The physical fitness of physiotherapy professionals in Kamrup Metro is unsatisfactory. There is a need to increase awareness regarding personal fitness and promote improvements by incorporating fitness-related activities into their daily routines and professional training curriculum.