Oxygen Consumption and Generalized Optimism Among College Physical Education Students

Background/Purpose: This poster presentation examines the correlation between VO2 max (ml/o2/kg/min) and generalized optimism levels of physical education students at the University of Central Oklahoma. The study examined cardiovascular fitness level as indicated by a 12-minute run/walk test and level of optimism as indicated by the Life Orientation Test-Revised.  The purpose of this research study was to determine whether a correlation exists between cardiovascular fitness and general optimism levels of college students at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Method: College students (n=56) majoring in physical education within the Kinesiology and Health Studies Department at the University of Central Oklahoma during the fall 2011 through the spring 2013 semesters were assessed utilizing a 12-minute run/walk.  Data (distance traveled and heart rate) were then entered into the Polar Trifit 700 testing software to determine an estimated VO2 max (ml/O2/kg/min) for each participant.   Prior to completing the 12-minute run/walk, each participant completed the Life Orientation Test-Revised to indicate level of optimism.

Analysis/Results: Pearson correlation revealed that a significant correlation exists (r=.342, p=.012) for college age students between the measure of VO2 max (M=40.47, SD 9.95) and level of optimism (M=16.48, SD=5.18). Optimism was measured using the Life Orientation Test Revised with a range between 0-40.

Conclusions: As a college age student has greater levels of cardiovasular fitness (as measured by VO2 max) they will aslo have a significant correlation (increased) level of optimism.