Maximum Oxygen Consumption and Working Memory in Physical Education University Students in Peru; [Consumo máximo de oxígeno y memoria de trabajo en universitarios de Educación Física en Perú]

Abstract

Introduction: The relationship between Maximum Oxygen Uptake (VO2 max) and the dimensions of working memory (WM) in university students is key to integrating physical and cognitive aspects in the holistic development of the student. Objective: This study aims to determine the relationship between VO2 max and WM dimensions among Physical Education university students in Peru, 2023. Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlationaldesign was employed to investigate Physical Education students. Using probabilistic sampling, 183 participants were selected from a population of 349, with a 95 % confidence level. The VO2 max was measured using the Course Navette Test; WM was assessed through the Wechsler IV Scale for adults and the Rey-Osterrieth test. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were applied, ensuring adherence to the ethical principles of research with humans, including informed consent and data confidentiality. Results: A significant positive relationship was found between WM and VO2 max, with verbal memory and VO2 max showing a correlation of r =.448** and a p-value of.007; for visuospatial memory and VO2 max, a correlation of r =.587** with a p-value of.000 was found; for the executive component of WM and VO2 max, a correlation of r =.352* with a p-value <.05; and for WM and VO2 max, a correlation of r =.534** with a p-value <.05 was observed. Conclusions: WM is significantly and positively related to VO2 max. © 2024, Editorial Ciencias Medicas. All rights reserved.