Project HOPE (Health Optimizing Physical Activities and Exercises): A Basis for Fitness Program Among Bachelor of Physical Education Students of Ifugao State University- Potia Campus

Abstract

This study assessed the effectiveness of Project HOPE (Health Optimizing Physical Activities and Exercises) as a basis for a fitness program among Bachelor of Physical Education students of Ifugao State University- Potia Campus. The study employed a quasi-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design and involved 90 students through total enumeration. The participants completed structured physical activities and exercises for one hour per day, Monday to Friday, over 20 days. Fitness was assessed using an individual scorecard adapted from the Revised Physical Fitness Test Manual under DepEd Order No. 34, s. 2019. Mean, standard deviation, paired-samples t-test, and Cohen's d were used in the analysis. The findings showed statistically significant pretest-posttest differences across all reported health- and skill-related fitness measures (p <= .014). Moderate to very large effects were observed, with the strongest effects recorded for standing long jump power (d = 2.63), right-side stork balance (d = 2.23), and stick-drop reaction time (d = 2.06). Strength, flexibility, coordination, agility, speed, balance, and reaction time improved after the intervention, while body mass index remained within the normal classification. The results indicate that Project HOPE is a practical structured exercise program for improving the physical fitness of Bachelor of Physical Education students and may be sustained with greater emphasis on muscular strength and core endurance.