Are Practicing Physiotherapists Physically Fit? An Observational Study on Fitness during Direct Clinical Care
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Physiotherapists need to maintain high physical fitness due to the demands of their profession. However, they may not consistently achieve optimal fitness potentially affecting their productivity. Aim: To assess physical fitness levels among physiotherapists using standardized field-based tests. Sample size: 40 Study design: Observational study. Source of Data: Physiotherapist practicing in clinics, hospitals and medical institutions. Methods: 40 physiotherapists aged (21–35 years) were recruited as per the selection criteria and assessed via push-up test, wall squat test, plank hold test and toe-touch test. Results: The mean push-up count was 9.58 (23.95%) of participants classified as Poor. Wall squat test showed 40% unable to hold for >30 seconds. Plank hold average was 71.5 seconds, (45%) as Below Average or Poor. Flexibility assessment showed average results, with no participants achieving excellent scores. Conclusion: These findings highlight suboptimal physical fitness among physiotherapists, raising concerns about their overall health and functional capacity.
Authors: Love Jeet, Sandeep Kumar, Smati Sambyal, Ekta Shukla, Gurleen Kaur
Institution: Baba Farid University of Health Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Occupational Therapy
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4413903329