RESULTS OF PHYSICAL FITNESS TRAINING FOR MALE FUTSAL ATHLETES AT NAKHON PATHOM RAJABHAT UNIVERSITY AGES BETWEEN 18-22 YEARS OLD

Abstract

This research article aims to 1) compare the physical fitness of male futsal athletes at Nakhon Pathom Rajabhat University before and after an 8-week physical fitness training program, and 2) study changes in physical fitness across five components: flexibility, agility, muscle strength, speed, and cardiorespiratory endurance, following the training. The sample consisted of 40 male physical education students aged 18–22 years who were specifically selected (purposive sampling) to participate in the 8-week physical fitness training program, three days a week. Physical fitness tests used were the Sit and Reach Test, T-Test, Vertical Jump Test, 50-Meter Sprint, and Cooper 12-Minute Run Test. Data analysis used the Paired Sample t-test to compare results before and after training.

          The research findings show that

          1) After 8 weeks of training, male futsal players had significantly higher average physical fitness scores compared to before training (p < .05), indicating the effectiveness of the program based on the FITT principle and Progressive Overload.

          2) All five components of physical fitness have improved, especially muscular strength and agility, which are important factors for efficient movement and playing futsal.

          In summary, this 8-week physical fitness program is effective in improving the physical fitness of university-level futsal players and can be appropriately applied to enhance physical readiness for competition.