Abstract

Introduction. Physical inactivity is a risk factor for obesity that in turn is a risk factor for pathological conditions. The objectives of the research were to assess the fitness level among medical students, to determine their body mass index, whether they practise sports or not, during an academic year.
Material and method. A questionnaire was used to assess the fitness level of the first and second year medical students of the “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy. The study was completed between October 2011 and May 2012.
Results. Group 1 consisted of 569 students: 433 females (76.23%) and 135 males (23.77%) who attended the physical education and sports classes, but did not practised competition sports. Group 2 consisted of 53 students: 20 females (37.74%) and 33 males (62.26%) who practised competition sports (basketball, volleyball, football) and played in the university teams. Group1 had the following characteristics: age 18-44 years, height 150 – 185 cm, weight 40-155 kg, BMI 15.6 – 35.4. Group 2 had the following characteristics: age 19-28 years, height 162 – 195 cm, weight 55-113 kg, BMI 17.6 – 30.9. In group 1, 13.56% of the students were underweight, 9.15% overweight, 1.94%, obese and 75.35% normal weight. In group 2, 5.77% of the students were underweight, 5.77% overweight, 3.85% obese, and 84.62% normal weight.
Conclusion. Regular physical activity is essential for the prevention of overweight and obesity.