Evaluación de la condición física en adolescentes del Colegio Integrado Pablo VI mediante la batería ALPHA-Fitness

Abstract

The present study aimed to assess health-related physical fitness in students from Colegio Integrado Pablo VI, located in La Paz, Santander, by applying the ALPHA-Fitness battery, internationally recognized as a valid and reliable tool for evaluating physical fitness in children and adolescents. The total population consisted of 68 students, of whom 48 adolescents (32 males and 16 females), aged between 13 and 17 years, were deemed eligible. The research was conducted under strict ethical criteria, ensuring voluntary participation through informed consent provided by guardians and informed assent signed by the adolescents. Data collection included anthropometric measurements (body mass index and waist-to-height ratio), muscular strength tests (handgrip strength and standing long jump), motor capacity (4x10 m speed-agility test), and aerobic capacity (20 m shuttle run test). Results revealed a high prevalence of students categorized as “low” and “very low” in key indicators such as handgrip strength and body mass index, reflecting concerning trends related to health status and potential future cardiovascular risks. Nevertheless, a smaller group of participants demonstrated favorable performances in agility and aerobic resistance tests, indicating that despite general deficits, some adolescents maintain adequate levels of physical capacity. These findings underscore the importance of implementing school- and community-based strategies aimed at strengthening physical education, promoting extracurricular activity, and involving families in order to consolidate healthy lifestyles from early stages of life.