A Study of Body Composition, Aerobic Capacity, and Physiological Responses of Cricket and Football Players in Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

Body composition, aerobic capacity, and physiological responses are among the most important factors influencing athletic performance. Different sports require distinct physical and physiological characteristics that enable athletes to meet the demands of competition. Cricket and football, although both popular team sports, differ considerably in their movement patterns, intensity, and energy requirements. Cricket involves intermittent bursts of high -intensity activities such as batting, bowling, sprinting, and fielding, whereas football demands continuous running, repeated sprints, agility, and sustained cardiovascular endurance. This study examines and compares the body composition, aerobic capacity, and physiological responses of cricket and football players enrolled in higher education institutions. The study focuses on variables such as Body Mass Index (BMI), body fat percentage, lean body mass, resting heart rate, blood pressure, vital capacity, and maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max). Understanding these characteristics provides valuable information for athlete selection, scientific training, injury prevention, and performance enhancement. The findings are expected to contribute to evidence-based coaching practices and support the development of sport-specific conditioning programs for collegiate athletes.