Association between cardiorespiratory endurance and physical activity level among overweight individuals

Background: Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders in overweight individuals. Understanding the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity levels is crucial for developing effective interventional strategies. Objective: To examine the correlation between cardiac endurance and physical activity levels in overweight individuals using objective and subjective assessment methods. Methods: This cross-sectional correlation study included 100 overweight individuals (BMI 23-27.5 kg/m²) aged 18-40 years recruited. Cardiorespiratory endurance was assessed using the Queen's College Step Test (QCST) to estimate VO₂ max. Physical activity levels were evaluated using pedometer-measured step counts over 24 hours and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) measures. Participants were categorised into low, moderate, and high fitness/activity levels. Statistical analysis included associations were examined using likelihood ratio tests. Results: The participants mean age and BMI was 21.39±1.86 years and 25.47±1.17 kg/m² respectively. For cardiorespiratory endurance, 44% demonstrated moderate fitness, 42% low fitness, and 14% high fitness. Pedometer assessment showed 71% were moderately active, 26% physically active, and 3% inactive. GPAQ assessment revealed 94% were moderately active and 6% had low activity. Significant positive correlations were found between cardiorespiratory endurance and both pedometer-based physical activity (p=0.003) and GPAQ-based physical activity (p=0.004). Among participants with high cardiac endurance, 71.42% were physically active by pedometer assessment. Conclusion: Significant positive correlations exist between cardiorespiratory endurance and physical activity levels in overweight individuals. Both objective and subjective physical activity assessment methods demonstrated associations with cardiac endurance, supporting their utility for fitness evaluation and intervention planning in this population.