Effects of two selected roller skating programs upon anthropometric, physiological and attitudinal parameters in college-aged students.

Abstract

This study was designed to investigate the effects roller skating programs would have on physical fitness, body composition, leg strength and flexibility, and attitude of 56 college students. Treadmill tests were performed to determine cardiorespiratory fitness; in addition, laboratory tests were performed to determine body composition, leg strength and flexibility. The Kenyon scale was administered to determine the attitude of 56 college students. A unique dimension was included in the study in that a leisure-time activity index was used to determine if outside activity had any bearing on test results. A two-way analysis of variance with repeated measures was used to determine if any significant changes occurred. Duncan's multiple range was used to determine if posttest differences existed.

The statistical findings indicated that only pre/post main effects occurred in selected variables; and that because the control group was included in this pre/post effects no changes could be attributed to the experimental programs. It was noted that one leg strength variable, knee extension, demonstrated a trend toward increased strength from continuous skating.

The implications for teaching were: first, that in order for roller skating to be a part of a physical fitness program it must be supplemented with additional aerobic activities; and, second, the equating of student activity levels should be a part of a complete physical exercise prescription.