THE EFFECT OF CIRCUIT TRAINING ON SELECTED PHYSICAL FITNESS COMPONENTS: THE CASE OF SHINILE SECONDARY AND PREPARATORY SCHOOL MALE STUDENTS, SITTI ZONE, ETHIOPIAN SOMALI REGIONAL STATE

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a 12 week circuit training intervention on markers of physical fitness: push up for muscular endurance, bench step for cardiovascular and agility based on Illinois training exercise. Male High school students (N=30) their age 16-19 who have not previously involved in exercise were purposively handpicked for the 12 week intervention. which tested performance before and after each training session by using Push up test, YMCA bench step tests , and Illinois agility test. The Students´ t-test for one sample, dependent or paired samples was used to show the degree of relationship between pre test and post test results. As documented by the test on training intervention, significant improvements were observed in Pushup test the calculated t statistic is t=36.648 and the result for the step up test t=23.966 while (P-value) or critical t value at df =29 and at α= 5% confidence interval for both tests was t =1.699. In both the push up and the bench step significant improvements were observed. Very surprisingly, the result for the Illinois agility test the computed t=0.593 and the t- critical or P- value =1.699. That is, the p-value 1.699 > the computed t=0.539. This result showed no significant change and it indicated no improvements between the Illinois pre and post test and called for further studies about the Illinois test for agility. The results of this study demonstrate that the push up and the bench step training can be an effective tool for the improvement of muscular strength, endurance, and increased cardiovascular endurance. While it is unclear whether the Illinois training could significantly affect improved level of agility individuals. Overall, integration of regular push up and bench step exercises in the formal Physical Education curriculum was posited as minimal recommendations for aerobic activity, muscle strengthening and physical strength. Further research should be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the Illinois training program under different respondents and condition.