An Examination of Table Tennis Players' Physical Intensity and How It Relates to Their Body Composition in Late Adulthood and Elderly

This study aimed to analyze the intensity of physical activity during table tennis and its relationship with body composition in middle-aged and older adults. Aging is associated with various physiological changes, including declines in muscle mass, increases in fat mass, and reduced cardiovascular efficiency, which may influence how the body responds to physical activity. Therefore, understanding the intensity of commonly practiced sports such as table tennis is important for promoting safe and effective exercise among this population. A descriptive survey design was employed involving 31 male participants aged between 35 and 66 years who regularly engaged in table tennis at least three times per week. Data collection focused on two primary variables: exercise intensity and body composition. Exercise intensity was measured using heart rate monitoring during 30 minutes of table tennis play, while body composition was assessed through body mass index and visceral fat index using bioelectrical impedance analysis. The collected data were analyzed descriptively and further explored to identify relationships between age, heart rate responses, and body composition indicators. The findings indicated that table tennis activity elicited moderate to high cardiovascular intensity, as reflected by elevated percentages of maximum and average heart rate. Participants demonstrated considerable variability in both heart rate responses and body composition, suggesting differences in fitness levels and health status. Higher body mass index categories, particularly overweight and obese groups, tended to show increased heart rate responses, indicating greater cardiovascular strain during activity. Additionally, visceral fat levels varied widely among participants, with higher values associated with increased health risks. There was a positive but weak-to-moderate link between age and heart rate responses, which means that older people tended to work out at higher relative intensities. However, age alone was not a strong predictor, indicating that other factors such as fitness level and body composition play a more significant role. In conclusion, table tennis can be considered a beneficial physical activity for middle-aged and older adults, offering sufficient intensity to improve cardiovascular function. However, the variability in individual responses highlights the importance of monitoring exercise intensity and tailoring activity levels to individual health conditions to ensure safety and maximize health benefits.