Vol. 5, Issue 12, Part E (2019)

Obesity is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Energy dense cheap foods, labour-saving devices, motorized transport and sedentary work in the present time has led to obesity. Obesity can be assessed in several ways and BMI measures body composition on the basis of weight and height. Cardiovascular endurance involves contraction of large muscle groups for prolong periods of time during which maximum acclimatization of circulatory and respiratory systems are necessary. VO2 max is internationally accepted parameter to evaluate cardio respiratory fitness. Low cardio-respiratory fitness in young adults with increased body fat can be a potential factor for developing cardiovascular problems later in middle age. So, the data regarding the BMI and its Related Cardio-respiratory fitness in young adults are extremely critical to design the preventive programs for Cardiovascular diseases.

Methods: 100 young male adults were selected by convenient sampling method based on inclusion and Exclusion criteria. Baseline data were assessed using Body mass index (BMI) and Queen’s College Step Test for Vo2 max.

Results: The results showed that there was a significant positive correlation between BMI and VO2max (ml/kg/min) Normal-weight subjects demonstrated greater cardio respiratory fitness compared to overweight and obese subjects which suggests possible effect of body fat on cardiorespiratory functions.

Conclusion: BMI is having significant impact on cardio respiratory fitness as the BMI increased the cardio respiratory fitness assessed by VO2 max decreased. This study demonstrates the importance of low cardiorespiratory fitness in young adults with increased body fat which could be a factor for developing cardiovascular comorbidities later in middle age.