Comparative Study on Health-Related Physical Fitness between Middle-Aged Male Masons and Farmers of Murshidabad District in West Bengal, India

Health is an integral form of human capital that can positively influence agricultural and construction productivity in the physical, mental, and social domains. The work of farmers and masons is still physically demanding, but they are not as active as in the past due to the advancement of science and innovative machinery. Although the benefits of physical activity and exercise are widely acknowledged, many middle-aged and elderly individuals remain sedentary. Heavy carrying and lifting are common activities among farmers and masons that may be related to fitness level. The purpose of the study was to compare the health-related physical fitness between middle-aged farmers and masons from Murshidabad District of West Bengal, India. The study subjects were male farmers (n=20) and male Masons (n=20) with a mean age of 48.67 ± 3.23 and 49.91 ± 3.83 years, respectively, from Murshidabad District of West Bengal, India. Health-related physical fitness was assessed using standardised testing protocols, and a t-test was conducted for statistical analysis. Five health-related physical fitness components (muscle Strength, muscle endurance, flexibility, cardiovascular endurance and body fat percentage) were measured, and none of the measured fitness components were significantly different between farmers and masons. The study concludes that middle-aged village male farmers and masons are similar in health-related physical fitness components.