Improving the physical fitness of grade 6 pupils through zumba

Abstract

This study aimed to assess how a Zumba program could improve the physical fitness of Grade 6 pupils at a public elementary school in Iloilo City, Philippines, addressing concerns about declining physical activity and related health risks in children. Thirty-three pupils, aged 11 to 12, underwent baseline and post-intervention assessments using the standardized Philippine Physical Fitness Test (PPFT), which evaluated cardiovascular endurance through the 3-Minute Step Test, flexibility via the Sit and Reach Test, balance with the Stork Balance Test, coordination using Wand Juggling, and muscular strength through the Squat Test. Data were collected before and immediately after a four-week Zumba intervention consisting of twice-weekly 30-minute sessions delivered through rhythmic and engaging demonstrations designed to motivate active participation. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including means and standard deviations, and inferential statistics via the Wilcoxon signed-rank test to determine significant differences between pre- and post-intervention scores. Findings revealed statistically significant improvements across all fitness domains: balance increased from "fair" to "average," coordination improved from "fair" to "good," muscular strength was sustained at "excellent" levels with notable endurance gains, and both cardiovascular endurance and flexibility showed marked enhancements, particularly among female pupils. These measurement methods and statistical analyses confirm that Zumba is an effective, enjoyable, and inclusive exercise that significantly enhances multiple aspects of physical fitness. The study supports the integration of Zumba into physical education curricula as a means to promote sustained physical activity and holistic development among elementary school pupils.