Morpho-functional state of the respiratory system among students based on physical fitness levels

Human physical development influences its morpho-functional state, which is assessed at each stage of development through somatometric, physiometric, and somatoscopic indicators. The purpose of this study is to assess the morpho-functional state of the respiratory system in students. Materials and methods: A total of 32 female students (average age 18 years) were randomly selected to participate in the study, and they were divided into two groups based on their level of physical fitness. The first group (untrained) consisted of 12 female students with low physical activity, while the second group (trained) included 20 female dancers with high physical activity. The following indicators were obtained: body height, chest circumference at rest, during deep inspiration, and deep expiration, as well as thoracic excursion indices. Spirometry was also performed, recording two key indicators: vital lung capacity (VC) and forced expiratory volume (FEV1). Results: According to the results, there were no significant differences in somatometric indicators between the two groups (P>0.05), except for body height. Trained female students were significantly taller than untrained female students (P<0.05). In both groups, the average chest circumference corresponded to typical values for physical development. However, thoracic excursion in both groups was weak, averaging 3.5 cm. The functional capabilities of external respiration among the studied students were moderately reduced, with greater reductions observed in the untrained group. The average VC among trained female students was 350 ml higher (2.53±0.1 l) than that of untrained students (2.18±0.1 l; P=0.01). Conclusions: Thus, the morpho-functional state of the respiratory system can vary depending on the fitness level of the individual. Students with higher levels of physical fitness generally exhibit better respiratory function compared to those with lower physical activity. This variation is often reflected in key indicators such as lung capacity, chest mobility, and forced expiratory volume.