Effect of Sixteen Weeks of Fartlek Training on Self- Esteem of Saudi University Students

Objectives: Self-esteem is considered one of the fundamental indicators of mental health (Fox, 2000). The objective was to examine the effect of 16 weeks of supervised fartlek training on self-esteem on undergraduate students (n=40; Mage 18.52 years). Methods/Statistical Analysis: Two groups were formed and randomized into intervention (n=20) which was given 16 weeks of supervised fartlek training program and control group (n=20). Control group participants continued with daily routine. Time duration of the training program was 45 minutes per session, twice per week. Rosenberg’s Self-esteem scale (1965) was administered to both groups prior and after 16 weeks of intervention program. Wilcoxon signed rank test and Mann-Whitney Test was used to determine the differences between pre and post scores and between groups respectively. Findings: Significant difference was notified between pre and post fartlek intervention group on self-esteem 22 (5) versus 25 (4), p<.001. No significant difference observed on self-esteem between pre and post median score of students’ in the control group where physical activity p<4 hours per week 23 (4) and 24 (2), P= .475; but it showed significantly different where the physical activity >4 per week 23.5 (5) and 26 (4), P= .045. Application/Improvement: Self-esteem improved with sixteen weeks of fartlek intervention program. It was suggested that students who were not adequately engaged in physical activities that is <4 hours per week need to undergo an intervention program or be motivated to engage in regular physical activities 4 hours and more per week in order to boost their self-esteem.