RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE FREQUENCY AND INTENSITY OF GROUP PHYSICAL ACTIVITY EXERCISES AND THE PHYSICAL FITNESS LEVELS OF PARTICIPANTS

This study examined the relationship between the frequency and intensity of group physical activity exercises and the physical fitness levels of Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSBIO) students enrolled in the PATHFIT 3 course at ZDSPGC Pagadian City, Zamboanga Peninsula, Philippines, during the Academic Year 2025–2026. Using a descriptive correlational research design, the study investigated how structured group exercise participation influenced various components of health-related physical fitness. Data on exercise frequency and intensity were collected through a structured questionnaire, with intensity assessed using the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale. Pre- and post-assessment physical fitness tests evaluated cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, coordination, agility, speed, power, balance, reaction time, and body composition. Results revealed statistically significant improvements in most fitness components after participation in the exercise program. Mean heart rate significantly decreased from 88.33 bpm to 82.19 bpm (t = 7.46, p < 0.001), indicating enhanced cardiovascular efficiency. Muscular strength and endurance improved substantially, with median push-up performance increasing from 15.50 to 41.00 repetitions (W = 666.0, p < 0.001). Significant gains were also observed in coordination, agility, speed, power, balance, and reaction time (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001). However, flexibility showed only slight improvement (p = 0.083), while body composition remained unchanged. Overall, the findings indicate that both exercise frequency and intensity significantly contribute to improved physical fitness among university students.