Effects of a 20-week tailored physical activity intervention on body composition and functional fitness in undergraduate women with overweight and obesity

Viorela Popescu; Cristiana Lucretia Pop

doi:10.15561/20755279.2026.0504

Authors

Viorela Popescu Bucharest University of Economic Studies https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0367-0010
Cristiana Lucretia Pop Bucharest University of Economic Studies https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6445-8702

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15561/20755279.2026.0504

Keywords:

inclusive physical activity, group homogeneity, dynamic movement-based assessments, university students, health promotion

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Undergraduate women with overweight or obesity often face barriers to regular physical activity, which may contribute to unfavorable body composition and reduced functional fitness. This study examined the effects of a 20-week tailored physical activity program on body composition and functional fitness in this specific population. Materials and Methods. Fifty undergraduate women aged 18–24 years with overweight or obesity were allocated to an experimental group (EG; n = 25) or a control group (CG; n = 25). The EG completed two supervised 60-minute tailored physical activity sessions per week for 20 weeks, while the CG maintained usual activity. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis, and functional fitness was evaluated through abdominal sit-ups, trunk extension, knee push-up, and squat tests. Time × Group effects were examined using mixed ANOVA. Results. Significant Time × Group interactions were observed for all body composition and functional fitness outcomes (all p < 0.001; ηp² = 0.55–0.86). The EG showed reductions in body weight (−5.33 kg), BMI (−2.00 kg/m²), body fat percentage (−4.07%), waist circumference (−4.62 cm), and hip circumference (−8.00 cm), alongside an increased muscle mass percentage (+2.02%). Functional fitness improved in all four tests, whereas the CG showed minimal or detrimental changes. Conclusions. Participation in a 20-week tailored physical activity program was associated with beneficial changes in body composition and functional fitness among undergraduate women with overweight or obesity. Tailored, inclusive physical activity programs may be feasible health-promotion strategies in higher education settings.

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Author Biographies

Viorela Popescu, Bucharest University of Economic Studies

PhD; viorela.popescu@defs.ase.ro; Physical Education and Sports Department; Bucharest, Romania.

Cristiana Lucretia Pop, Bucharest University of Economic Studies

Professor; cristina.pop@defs.ase.ro; Physical Education and Sports Department; Bucharest, Romania.

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