Abstract:
Circuit training is a type of interval training program that combines components of strength training as well as cardio vascular training and it is an excellent way to simultaneously improve mobility and build strength and stamina. The main objective of this study was to examine the effects of circuit training on selected physical fitness components of grade 12 female students in Gorika secondary school. To achieve the objective of this study, the researcher used quantitative research method. In addition, true experimental research design was employed. For this study, 40 female students were selected as a target population of the study. The subjects were selected purposively and assigned in to two equal experimental group (20) and control groups (20) randomly. The experimental group participated in individualized and supervise moderate intensity circuit training program 3 days/week for 12 weeks. However, the control group didn’t participate in training program designed for this study, but tests were conducted for both groups. The ages of the subjects were ranged from 18-19 years. Pre-test of two groups of 40 subjects (Cardio respiratory fitness was measured by step test, muscular strength was measured using trunk lift test, muscular endurance was measured using 60 second sit up test, explosive leg power was measured by vertical jump test and agility was measured by Illinois agility test) was recorded. After 12 weeks of circuit training, post-test measurements on the same parameter was taken. The difference between the tests were analyzed statistically by SPSS version 20 software, with paired sample t- test at level of significance p<0.05 to determine the difference between initial and final mean of participants. According to analyzed data, the mean difference of EG after 12-week circuit training program indicated that step test was decreased by -29.5BPM, trunk lift test was increased by 9.3RM, 60 second sit up test was increased by 8.9repetition/minute, vertical jump test was improved by 10.1cm and Illinois agility run test was decreased by -4.6 seconds. The result of this study proved that significant improvement was observed in CRF, muscular strength, muscular endurance, power and agility of female students at 0.05 level of significance (p<0.05) on EG. However, there was no significant difference and improvement recorded on CG. Based on these findings, the researcher concluded that circuit training was an effective method for improving physical fitness components of female students.
