Determination of cardiovascular fitness in young healthy medical students

Background: Cardiovascular fitness refers to the ability of circulatory system to supply oxygen to working muscles during sustained physical activity. Objectives: To determine the cardiovascular fitness (using predicted VO2 max) among young healthy medical students in the age group of 17-19 years. Materials and methods: On the basis of physical activity performed subject were categorized into 3 category light, moderate, vigorous exerciser. Cardiovascular fitness was assessed by using treadmill exercise as per Bruce protocol. Results: Data were analyzed using the paired t-test.Conclusion.it was observed in the study that vigorous exerciser had better cardiovascular fitness than moderate and light exerciser. Conclusion: Students who had more physical activity were having better cardiovascular fitness. Hence, it is suggested that some physical activity should be mandatory in the curriculum of medical education which would help us to maintain cardiovascular fitness and reduce the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the long run of their careers.