Athlete Health And Performance At A D2 Historically Black College

BACKGROUND: Fitness is defined as a set of attributes, primarily respiratory and cardiovascular, relating to the ability to perform tasks requiring energy expenditure. Health is a relative state in which one is able to function well physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually in order to reach one’s full potential. They may be unhealthy due to poor diet, lack of sleep, and excessive stress. Athletes need to be as healthy as possible so they are able to perform well in sports and in the classroom. PURPOSE: The goal of this project is to determine the physical performance and health status of D2 athletes at a Historically Black College of University (HBCU). METHODS: Participants were recruited from athletic teams at a Division 2 HBCU. Physical parameters measured were height, weight, waist circumference, BPrest, HRrest, and body composition via Bod Pod. Performance parameters included muscle strength (hand grip dynamometer), muscle endurance (push up test), and flexibility (sit and reach). RESULTS: Nine female and 13 male athletes (19.55 yrs, +/- 1.5 yrs) participated in the study. Two participants were Caucasian, 18 were black, and 2 chose the “other” classification. Sports represented were women’s and men’s basketball, football, men’s volleyball, and cheer. BMI’s (calculated) were in the overweight category with women averaging 27.44 and men 27.85. Average body fat was 12.9% for women and 14.4% for men. Average waist circumference measures were in the low risk category for women (33.94 in.) and men (33.25 in.). Average BPrest was 121.4/70.4. HRrest was 61.1 bpm. Women’s grip strength was in the 95th percentile at 43.18 kg, and men were in the 20th percentile at 35.65 kg. Muscle endurance indicated women were in the excellent category (33.44) and men in the fair category (20.38). Women’s sit and reach score was 21.41 in., while men were 26.36 in. CONCLUSIONS: The athletes are physically “healthy”. Performance parameters indicated a lack of strength training for the men with low scores in both grip strength and push-ups. These athletes, although healthy, are struggling with physical performance. Lack of access to training facilities and training staff is apparent. A follow up study will be looking at the changes in assessments during post season. NIFA-USDA