Effects of the physical education curriculum of the G.C. Foster College of Physical Education and Sport on the cardiovascular systems of undergraduate students

The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between physical education activity classes of the physical education curriculum and cardiovascular responses in resting heart rate and blood pressure among a group of freshmen students at G.C. Foster College of Physical Education and Sport in Jamaica. The study also sought to ascertain the perceptions of the participants in regard to the content and rigor of the physical activity classes. The research method used was quantitative.;The study was conducted with freshmen who were not athletes in training or involved in intercollegiate competition during the year. Data were collected from the freshmen to address four research questions. Blood pressure and pulse rate were collected by the college nurse at the beginning and conclusion of their freshman year. During the fall registration session/orientation of their sophomore year a total of 205 questionnaires were distributed to the participants. A total of 195 were returned, of which 14 were withdrawn as these were athletes who had intensive physical training during the year.;Analysis of the data revealed that: As a result of the physical activity classes in G.C. Foster College's physical education curriculum, there was a decrease in the mean systolic pressure and diastolic blood pressure of the participants; there was a greater reduction in mean systolic pressure in males than females; Males also had a greater reduction in mean diastolic pressure; The decrease in blood pressure was more significant in participants who had higher baseline measurement; Participants experienced a reduction in their mean pulse rate after the activity classes; Reduction in pulse rate was more significant in males than in females; Participants perceived the activity courses quite positively; They indicated that they were more knowledgeable of the importance of physical exercise; more aware of the need for regular physical exercise; and more aware of the health benefits of physical activity; the courses significantly contributed to their physical fitness; there was an improvement in their attitude towards physical activity; they were highly motivated to participate in physical activity outside the scheduled activity classes; However, male participants spent more time doing physical activities and did them more frequently; Participants were extremely satisfied with the content of the courses; There were higher levels of satisfaction with soccer, netball, volleyball and movement education; Participants were least satisfied with field hockey.