Physical practice profile and perceived physical fitness in users of Melilla's fitness centres

Abstract: Introduction: the proliferation of fitness centres has increased as a trend of regular physical exercise, however, little is known about the physical-sports practice profiles of the users of these centres in the Autonomous City of Melilla and their relationship with perceived physical condition. Aim: it was to analyse the physical-sports practice profiles and perceived physical condition of users. Methods: 100% of fitness centres in Melilla (n=3) agreed to participate in the study, with a total of 83 users. A self-report instrument was used, divided into sections to assess socio-demographic variables, sports practice profile and perceived physical condition by means of the International Fitness Scale (IFiS). Results & discussion: the majority of participants were women (53%) with active jobs and low incomes. In relation to their practice profile, there was a proliferation of those with more than 3 years of experience in physical-sports practice with a frequency of attendance of 4 days per week, with training sessions of 1 hour and 30 minutes. The main motivation for attendance was the improvement of physical and mental health and well-being (49.4%). Indoor strength training (73.5%) was the most common practice, followed by guided group activities (18.1%). Regarding the perception of the level of physical fitness, the majority (60.2%) perceived their general physical fitness as good, with muscular strength reaching the highest average value. Conclusions: the users have diverse socio-demographic profiles, with a female profile with experience and a high frequency of weekly training, mainly strength training, standing out. Most of them perceived a good general physical condition.