Comparative analysis of physical fitness levels and academic performance among secondary school students in rural and urban areas of Delanta, Ethiopia

Abstract

Significant disparities are evident in the physical fitness levels and academic performance of students enrolled in schools located in urban settings versus those in rural regions. Thus, this research aims to perform a comparative evaluation of students’ physical fitness levels and academic performance among secondary school learners from rural and urban locations of Delanta, Ethiopia. The study utilized a causal comparative research design involving a sample of 120 participants. Data were collected using various test batteries, including the 1.5 Mile run, Illinois agility, Sit and reach, Shot put, and 90-degree push-up test, while academic performance was gauged through students' cumulative grade point averages in mathematics, chemistry, biology, and physics. An independent t-test was used to compare physical fitness and academic attributes between the two groups, and the correlation coefficient was employed to analyse the association among physical fitness qualities and academic achievements. The fitness test results revealed significant disparities among rural and urban students in various aspects. The results revealed superior cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, power, and muscular strength were significantly different in a rural setting. However, agility and speed showed no significant changes among the groups. Regarding academic achievement, the difference between rural and urban students was not statistically significant. The study concludes that specific physical fitness components, particularly power, flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, and muscular strength, significantly influence academic success, with rural students outperforming urban peers in several fitness areas, while overall academic achievement remains similar between the groups.