EFFECT OF MINERAL INTAKE ON THE PHYSICAL FITNESS AND SPORTS PERFORMANCE OF AMATEUR FEMALE ATHLETES

Abstract

Background: The physiological job of minerals is significant for players, taking note of that minerals are engaged with muscle constriction, heart rhythm, nerve impulses, oxygen transportation, protein initiation, cell reinforcement, movement, and bone health. Since a significant number of these procedures are quickened during physical activity, a satisfactory amount of minerals is important for ideal working of athletes. Objectives: The study was conducted to analyze the effect of mineral intake on physical fitness components of and to determine the association between physical fitness and sports performance of female athletes Methodology: The study employed experimental research design. Data was collected through physical fitness tests, including strength, endurance, speed, and flexibility, and BMI was recorded in the pretest as well. Participants in the intervention group were mineral supplements for 8 weeks. Whereas, the participants in the control group were provided with nutritional knowledge to improve physical fitness and sports performance. Results: Independent sample T-Test indicated significant differences between pre and posttest for strength t(28)
=8/4, (p=0.000), for endurance t(28) =26.3, (p=0.000), for flexibility t(28)=13, (p=0.000), for speed t(28)=8.8, (p=0.000), and for BMI significant difference was not found as t(28)=-2.4, (p=0.021). One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized to analyze the effect of mineral intake on five components of physical fitness of amateur female athletes. Results indicated a significant effect of mineral intake on strength, endurance, flexibility and speed (p=0.000). Whereas, no significant effect was found on BMI (p=0.21). Regression analysis indicated no significant relationship between five components of physical fitness and perceived sports performance of amateur female athletes (p=0.653). Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be concluded that the present study laid a foundation for future studies with different methodologies.