Sex-Based Differences in Anthropometric Profiles and Physiological Responses to High-Intensity Strength-Endurance Exercise in Paramedic Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Podstawski R, Borysławski K, Kukla P, Snarska J, Bałdyga E, Szabo A et al. · Journal of functional morphology and kinesiology · 2026
Objectives: This study evaluated sex differences in physical activity levels, anthropometric parameters, strength-endurance performance, and acute physiological responses to high-intensity strength-endurance exercise in emergency medical services students.
Methods: Participants included 36 male and 23 female students aged 19-29 years. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Physical activity was measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and strength-endurance performance was assessed with the 3-Minute Burpee Test (3-MBT). Blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, perceived exertion, and handgrip strength were recorded before and after the 3-MBT.
Results: Men reported significantly higher PA levels than women (1963 vs. 1367 MET·min/week, p p p p = 0.075). Systolic blood pressure was higher in men before and after the test ( p p = 0.004, respectively) and increased significantly in both sexes ( p p
Conclusions: Men demonstrated greater strength-endurance performance than women, although both sexes were classified as having "poor" performance according to established 3-MBT normative values. Men reported higher physical activity, whereas women had a higher body fat percentage. These
Findings: demonstrate sex-based differences in physical activity, body composition, and strength-endurance performance among paramedic students.