Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a 12 week circuit training
intervention on markers of physical fitness: push up for muscular endurance, bench step for
cardiovascular and agility based on Illinois training exercise. Male High school students
(N=30) their age 16-19 who have not previously involved in exercise were purposively
handpicked for the 12 week intervention. which tested performance before and after each
training session by using Push up test, YMCA bench step tests , and Illinois agility test. The
Students´ t-test for one sample, dependent or paired samples was used to show the degree of
relationship between pre test and post test results. As documented by the test on training
intervention, significant improvements were observed in Pushup test the calculated t
statistic is t=36.648 and the result for the step up test t=23.966 while (P-value) or critical
t value at df =29 and at α= 5% confidence interval for both tests was t =1.699. In both the
push up and the bench step significant improvements were observed. Very surprisingly, the
result for the Illinois agility test the computed t=0.593 and the t- critical or P- value =1.699.
That is, the p-value 1.699 > the computed t=0.539. This result showed no significant change
and it indicated no improvements between the Illinois pre and post test and called for further
studies about the Illinois test for agility. The results of this study demonstrate that the push
up and the bench step training can be an effective tool for the improvement of muscular
strength, endurance, and increased cardiovascular endurance. While it is unclear whether
the Illinois training could significantly affect improved level of agility individuals. Overall,
integration of regular push up and bench step exercises in the formal Physical Education
curriculum was posited as minimal recommendations for aerobic activity, muscle
strengthening and physical strength. Further research should be conducted to determine the
effectiveness of the Illinois training program under different respondents and condition.
