Physical Education, Health and Social Sciences

Exploring Male Perspectives on Physical Activity and Sedentary Time in a College Workplace in District Peshawar

Kabir Jan, Bahr-e-Karam, Miss Mumlikat, Muhammad Bakhtiar, Ghulam Mustafa — Fri, 01 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0200

This study, "Exploring Male Perspectives on Physical Activity and Sedentary Time in a College Workplace in District Peshawar," employs a qualitative design to uncover the experiences and attitudes of male college students and staff toward physical activity and sedentary behavior. Focusing on a diverse sample of 20-30 participants aged 22 to 60, purposive sampling ensured targeted representation. Through engaging interviews, key themes emerged regarding current activity habits, barriers to staying active, and the influence of the college environment. Findings reveal a wide range of activity levels, with barriers including academic pressures, inadequate facilities, and cultural norms. Participants recognized the health risks of sedentary behavior but often felt resigned to their habits. The study underscores the need for tailored interventions to promote healthier lifestyles among male college populations, highlighting both supportive aspects of the college environment and areas for improvement.

Keywords: Male perspectives, physical activity, sedentary behavior, college students, qualitative research, Peshawar, barriers to exercise, academic pressures, cultural norms, college environment, tailored interventions, health risks.

The Role of Aga Khan Foundation in Socio-Economic Development of People of District Gilgit

Zakir Hussain, Dr. Khalid Mahmood — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0200

The chief objective of the study is to explore the Role of Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) in socio- economic development of people of district Gilgit. The services of Aga Khan Foundation are admirable in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. There are many agencies working under Aga Khan Foundation including Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP), Local Support Organization (LSO), etc. The large numbers of people of the Northern Areas as well as the people of Gilgit are getting advantages from the services of the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF). The foundation has been providing the health facilities, educational opportunities, and the agricultural comforts. In the area, the water supply and sanitation development Programme and provision of shelter to the homeless people are also provided by the AKF. The provision of health facilities remained a problem for a long time including unavailability of qualified doctors, lack of medicines in government hospitals and not access to the balanced diet for the common people in District Gilgit. Moreover, the public has been facing various issues in the access of education; e.g., having no access to quality education especially for the girls. The water is available to the people but the filter plants are not available anywhere in the area to avail the facility of pure water. The interviews have a great importance in this research, which helped the investigators to understand the issues of the people of Gilgit. The Aga Khan Foundation is solving some of the issues but there must be some other institutions to work in the remote areas.

Keywords: Aga Khan, Rural, Handicrafts, Agriculture, Welfare.

Investigating Primary School Teachers’ Problems in Teaching and their Learners’ Abilities in Learning of Science through English as Medium of Instruction

Javed Mustafa, Zafar Khan, Shafqatullah — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0200

This survey research was carried on having objectives; to know about learners’ abilities in learning of science through English as medium of instructions as perceived by their teachers and to pin point problems in the implementation of English as medium of instruction at primary level. All the 314 government girls’ primary schools in three tehsils of district Kohat was population of the study. Through cluster random sampling techniques the teachers of 158 schools teachers were selected as respondents of the study. Data from the respondents was collected through adopted questionnaire developed by Akhter (2018). Lack of potential on the part of students regarding covering and discussing all the contents of science, lack of interest in learning of science and no understanding and answering the questions raised in the classroom in science were major findings of the study. Similarly teachers face problems of unacceptability of using English and non-participation by students in the classroom were main problems of teachers while implementing English as medium of instructions in teaching of science at primary level. Arrangement of frequent science exhibitions for learners in schools, conduct of regular workshops for in-service teachers and ensuring at least one teacher in each school having BS in any science subjects were recommendations of the study.

Key Words: Primary School Teachers, learning, science, English as Medium of Instruction

Effect of Dynamic Stretching on Flexibility of Hamstring Muscles in Male College Students of Sindh Province

Muhammad Aijaz Siraj, Prof. Dr. Soniha Aslam — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0200

To determine whether a dynamic stretching training program is useful for evaluating young adults' hamstring muscular flexibility. Using a non-probability convenience sampling approach, an experimental investigation was conducted on 12 students in good health between 16 to 19 years old. All participants were notified of their involvement in the study and informed consents were taken. Prior to the start of the training program, the PAR-Q (physical activity readiness questionnaire) was also applied as a fitness examining instrument. Twelve randomly chosen individuals who participated in a dynamic stretching exercise program made up Group A. Scores from sit-and-reach tests were gathered. Over the duration of two weeks, the 40-minute training program was conducted. The frequency, mean, and standard deviation of the collected data was established using descriptive analysis. Additionally, the Paired T-test was employed to ascertain the data's significant value at a P-Value of less than 0.05. The participants' average age was 17.8, and their standard deviation was 0.9. Pre-score for group A was 16.87, while post-score was 17.93. Group A's mean score showed a significant difference (p<0.0171).A dynamic stretching training program improved hamstring muscular flexibility. One may choose a dynamic stretching training program if they want to quickly increase their hamstring muscle flexibility. It is fair to believe that dynamic training programs are helpful.

Key Words: Hamstring muscle, Flexibility, Stretching, Dynamic.

Exploring the Long-Term Effects of Early Specialization vs. Multi-Sport Participation in Youth Athletes

Mariyyah Samin Khan1, Sohrab Hussain2, Rasool Jaan3, Arshad Hussein4 — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0200

The study aims to better understand how participation in youth sport, specifically early specialization versus multi-sport, potentially influences long-term physical health and well-being among elite athletes. Early specialization, or intensive training in one sport and exclusion of participation with other sports at a young age for the intent of high performance does not only increase risk to overuse injury but is also associated with increased burnout. Alternatively, participation in multiple sports diversifies physical activities leading to well-rounded athleticism and lower injuries thereby allowing for a high state of motivation & enjoyment. Utilizing a variety of research methods- including literature review and interviews with former youth athletes - the study offers informed suggestions for stakeholders to help encourage comprehensive development in aspiring Canadian athletes, as well as maintain this training long into their athletic careers.

Keywords: Youth sport participation, Early specialization, Multi-sport participation, Long-term physical health, Well-being of elite athletes, Overuse injury, Burnout, Diversified physical activity

Effect of High Intensity Training Protocol on Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): A Controlled Study

Muhammad Bakhtiar, Kabir Jan, Ghulam Mustafa, Shamshaid Ahmed — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0200

This controlled study investigated the effects of eight-week high-intensity training protocol on alkaline phosphatase levels in male football student-athletes. A pre-test and post-test research design was employed, comprised 120 participants, and selected 60 participants (50% of the total) from club-level football athletes. These participants were randomly assigned an experimental group, which provided the high-intensity training program, on the other hand the control group, which didn’t participate in the training program. Pre measurements of alkaline phosphatase were collected at the start, and follow-up assessments were conducted at the end of the eight-week duration to evaluate changes. The training program was structured 8 weeks high-intensity training protocol with different week and different intensities, to progressively increase in intensity. Results of current research indicated a significant reduction in alkaline phosphatase levels in the experimental group post-training (p < .001), while not significant difference was showed in the control group (p > .05). These findings provide the importance of incorporating high-intensity training protocols in athletic programs to enhance alkaline phosphatase levels.

Keywords: high-intensity training protocol, alkaline phosphatase, football student-athletes.

The Impact of Sports on Daily Life: Enhancing Health, Social Well-Being and Personal Development

Hira Ghalib, Umar Ghani, Shamshaid Ahmed, Ijaz Ahmad, Afzal Rehman — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Sports have been integral to human culture for centuries, evolving from recreational activities to complex systems that influence physical, mental, and social well-being. This research investigates the broad impact of regular sports participation on individuals' physical health, social relationships, and personal development. The study highlights how engaging in physical activities fosters improvements in cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility, while also reducing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Furthermore, sports contribute to social well-being by encouraging interpersonal connections, team dynamics, and a sense of community. Participation in sports also promotes personal growth, enhancing life skills such as discipline, time management, leadership, and resilience. Through a mixed-methods approach involving surveys and interviews, the research demonstrates that sports provide a powerful remedy for the challenges posed by sedentary lifestyles, mental stress, and social isolation. The findings underscore the importance of integrating sports into daily life to promote overall well-being, advocating for increased access to sports programs and facilities as a means to enhance physical, mental, and social health across communities.

Keywords: Sports participation, physical health, mental health, social well-being, personal development.

Comparative Effect of Hatha Yoga and Aerobic training on Body Mass Index among Overweight College Students

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Health-related fitness is an invaluable asset, as it enables individuals to perform daily tasks with greater efficiency and effectiveness. One important aspect of health-related fitness is body composition. The primary goal of this study was to compare the effects of Hatha yoga and aerobic training on body mass index (BMI) among overweight college students. Twenty-five participants, aged 20 to 24, were selected for each of two groups using the PAR-Q (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire). Pre-test data for the dependent variable were collected using a digital weight scale and stadiometer, with BMI calculated using the formula: **BMI = Weight (kg) / (Height (cm)/100)²**. The Hatha yoga group and the aerobic training group each underwent a 10-week training program, with sessions held three times a week on alternate days. After the training period, post-test data were collected using the same procedures as the pre-test. The data from both pre- and post-tests were analyzed using SPSS version 24, employing mean, standard deviation, paired sample t-tests, and independent sample t-tests. The significance level was set at 0.05. The findings indicated that both training methods had a significant impact on BMI. Furthermore, the 10 weeks of Aerobic training produced more favorable results on BMI than Hatha yoga among overweight college students aged 20 to 24. Based on these results, it is recommended that overweight students engage in both Hatha yoga and aerobic exercises to improve their health-related fitness.

Key Words: Hatha yoga, Aerobic, Body Mass Index, overweight college students

Impact of Sports Participation on Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem Among College Boys in Peshawar: An Investigatory Study

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0300

This study investigates the role of sports participation in developing self-confidence and self-esteem among college Boys in Peshawar. It aims to understand their perceptions of how sports impact these traits and the influence of demographic factors such as locality and social class. The hypotheses propose that sports significantly enhance self-esteem and self-confidence, with demographic attributes affecting these perceptions. A total of 450 Likert-type questionnaires were distributed across colleges in Peshawar, yielding 200 responses. Data analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between sports participation and the development of self-confidence and self-esteem, with notable differences observed among demographics. The findings suggest that sports participation empowers boys to embrace challenges without fear of failure. Therefore, it is recommended that colleges offer diverse and challenging sports opportunities to promote higher standards and encourage boys to strive for success. Additionally, the government should provide adequate funding and facilities to support sports programs in Boys' colleges, fostering an environment conducive to independence and personal growth.

Keywords: Sports participation, Self-confidence, Self-esteem, College Boys Peshawar, Perceptions, Demographic factors

The Role of Vitamin D Supplementation in Enhancing Bone Density and Reducing Injury Risk in Female Endurance Athletes

Rasool Jaan, Dr. Ashiq Muhammad, Khalid Zaman, Shehneela Zaman — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0300

The interaction of vitamin D in improving the bone mass and minimizing the risk of injury to strength exercising female athletes is another significant field of investigation because of their susceptibility to loss of BMD and stress fractures. The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of vitamin D supplementation on BMD and rates of injury in female athletes, who are especially likely to have vitamin D deficiency because of their training, inadequate diets, and restricted time under the sun. In the current cross-sectional study, the supplementation effect on serum 25(OH)D, BMD and injury rate was investigated in the two groups of 150 athletes within a six-month intervention trial. There were significant variable changes such that the supplemented group records a higher improvement in vitamin D status, BMD, and reduced bone related injuries. Even though we did not find a significant decrease of injuries, our data shows a tendency that vitamin D could have a preventive effect on musculoskeletal system injuries. Hence, there is the need to focus on vitamin D supplementation among female endurance athletes to improve on their bone density and reduce the occurrence of injuries.

Keywords- Role of Vitamin D Supplementation, Bone Density, Reducing Injury & Female Endurance Athletes

Parents and Coach Influence in Sports Motivation (A Survey of Student-Athletes at College Level)

Sidra Tul Muntaha, Sohail Roman, Sehra Shouket, Mehreen Saba — Sat, 19 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0300

This study examined the impact of parental and coach support on sports motivation among college student-athletes, focusing on demographic differences. Data was collected from 193 athletes in Muzaffargarh, Ali Pur, and Jatoi through questionnaires. Results showed high support levels being the strongest predictor of sports motivation, followed by parental support; coach support had a lesser effect. Variations among colleges highlighted the significance of specific contexts, while no notable differences were found based on age or parental athletic background. Recommendations include enhancing parental involvement, providing coach training and establishing college-specific systems. The study suggests cultural sensitivity training and team-building workshop programs to strengthen support networks. Additionally, athlete empowerment initiatives and public awareness campaigns are encouraged to highlight the importance of support systems in college sports.

Keywords: Parental support, coach support, sports motivation, college student-athletes, demographic differences, Muzaffargarh, Ali Pur, Jatoi, support networks, coach training

Perception Of Educated Parents Towards Their Children Participation In Sports

Umar Ghani, Zia Ullah, Asif iqbal, Habibur Rahman, Shamshaid Ahmed — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0300

This study investigates the perceptions of educated parents regarding their children's participation in sports within District Mardan. Based on comprehensive data analysis, key findings emerged from a sample of 50 educated parents selected through simple random sampling. The results indicate that nearly all children were encouraged by their parents to engage in sports, reflecting a general belief among respondents that parents support their children's sports participation. Although most teachers provide adequate sports facilities in schools, such resources are often lacking at home. Notably, parents demonstrated strong encouragement for female participation in sports, frequently acknowledging their achievements. However, many parents expressed dissatisfaction with the current level of their children's involvement in sports. Additionally, the findings highlight a consensus among parents that sports activities serve as an essential avenue for skill development and enhance cognitive abilities, positively impacting academic performance. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire developed under the guidance of experts in sports sciences and physical education, providing a robust framework for understanding parental perceptions in this context.

Key words: Parental Perception, Sports Participation, Educated Parents Skill Development, Gender Encouragement

Comparative Effect of Hatha Yoga and Aerobic Training on Flexibility of Shoulder, Core back and Lower Back among Overweight College Students

Shamimur Rehman, Momna Sumbal, Shaher Yar sial, Mehboob Ullah Khan — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Engaging in fitness for health benefits is advantageous. It is the quality that enables an individual to perform daily tasks effectively and efficiently. Flexibility is a component of health-related fitness. The principal objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact of aerobic training and hatha yoga on the flexibility of the lower back, shoulders, and core back in overweight college students. Two groups each of twenty-five volunteers, aged 20 to 24, were selected for the study using the PAR-Q. Pre-test data on dependent variables was collected using the sit-and-reach test, back extension, and shoulder elevation. The participants in the hatha group and the aerobic group engaged in 10 weeks of Hatha yoga and aerobic exercise, respectively, three days per weeks. Subsequent to the intervention, post-test data on dependent variables were collected utilising the identical methods employed for pre-test data collection. The pre- and post-collection data for each group's subjects were compiled. The data were examined utilizing the following statistical tests: independent samples t-test, paired samples t-test, and mean calculation. A constant significance level of 0.05 was utilized. The flexibility of the shoulder, lower back, and core back is considerably influenced by both training regimens. Moreover, among overweight college students aged 20 to 24, yoga exercises had superior effects on shoulder flexibility, core back flexibility, and lower back flexibility compared to aerobic training. Students with excess weight are encouraged to participate in aerobic and hatha yoga exercises to enhance their overall fitness levels.

Keywords- Hatha Yoga, Aerobic training, Flexibility, Shoulder, Core back, lower back, Overweight College Students

Comparative effects of Hatha Yoga and Aerobic exercises upon the Circumference of Neck, Chest and Waist among the Overweight College Students

Mehboob Ullah Khan, Adil Mujtaba, Ghafar Ali, Azmat Iqbal — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Health related fitness is a blessing.it is the quality which enables a person to perform the daily routine tasks efficiently and effectively. Overweight is one of the factors that affect the health-related fitness. The main aim of the current study was to determine the comparative effects of hatha yoga training and aerobic training upon circumference of neck, chest and waist among overweight college students. Two groups each of twenty-five subjects were selected for the study through PAR-Q having age 20 to 24 years. The pretest data on dependent variables was collected through tape measurement. Ten weeks treatment each of Hatha yoga and aerobic training was given to the subjects of hatha group and aerobic group respectively for three days on alternate days per week. After the treatment, posttest data was collected of dependent variables through the procedure as adopted for the pretest data. The collected data (pre and post) of the subjects of each group was tabulated. Mean, standard deviation, paired sample t test and independent sample t test were used to analyses the data. The significance level was fixed at 0.05. it was concluded that both trainings have significant effects on the circumference of neck, chest and waist. Besides it, aerobic exercises of 10 weeks had better effects on the circumference of chest and waist compared to hatha yoga while hatha yoga have better effects on neck among overweight college students of 20 to 24 years of age. it is recommended that overweight students should take part in the hatha yoga exercises and aerobic exercises for the enhancement of their health-related fitness.

Key words: HathaYoga, Aerobic, neck, chest, waist, overweight

Effects of Hatha Yoga Training upon the Circumference of Neck, Chest and Waist among Overweight College Students

Adil Mujtaba, Ghafar Ali, Fazal Jabbar Yousafzai, Azmat Iqbal — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Health-related fitness is a blessing. It is the quality which enables a person to perform the daily routine tasks efficiently and effectively. Overweight is one of the factors that affect the health-related fitness. The main aim of the current study was to determine the effects of hatha yoga training on the circumference of neck, chest and waist among overweight college students. Twenty-five subjects were selected for the study through PAR-Q having the 20 to 24 years. The pre-test data on dependent variables was collected through the tape measurement. Ten weeks of treatment of Hatha yoga was given to the subjects for three days on alternate days per week. After the treatment, post test data was collected of dependent variables through the procedure as adopted for the pre test data. The collected data (pre and post) of the subjects was tabulated. Mean, standard deviation and paired sample t-test were used to analyze the data. The significance level was fixed at 0.05. It is concluded after the data analysis and findings that hatha yoga training has significant effects on circumference of neck, chest and waist among overweight college students. It is recommended that overweight students should take part in the hatha yoga exercises for the enhancement of their health-related fitness.

Key words: Hatha Yoga, neck, chest, waist, over weight

Winning Minds: The Role of Coaching Effectiveness and Team Unity in Enhancing Athlete Performance

Sajid Hassan, Dr. Faheem Ullah Khan, Shingraf Aziz, Dr. Khalid Usman — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0300

This study investigates the roles of coaching effectiveness and team unity in enhancing athlete performance among college-level athletes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Data were collected from 1,660 male and 354 female athletes across various colleges. Descriptive statistics revealed a mean coaching effectiveness score of 4.2 (SD = 0.8) and a mean team unity score of 4.1 (SD = 0.7). Multiple regression analysis showed that coaching effectiveness (β = 0.51, p < 0.01) and team unity (β = 0.46, p < 0.01) significantly predicted athlete performance, accounting for 54% of the variance in performance (R² = 0.54). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) confirmed the model's fit with χ²(67) = 145.67, p < 0.01, RMSEA = 0.045, CFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.96, and SRMR = 0.032. The results validated that coaching effectiveness directly affects athlete performance and indirectly influences performance through team unity. These findings underscore the importance of effective coaching and strong team cohesion in optimizing athletic performance. The study suggests that sports programs should focus on both coaching development and team-building strategies to enhance performance outcomes.

Keywords: Coaching Effectiveness, Team Unity, Athlete Performance, College Athletics & Sports Development