Scientific advances in the analysis of physical fitness and body composition of university students

Introduction: The capabilities that enable a person to perform physical activity over a prolonged period determine his or her physical fitness. Body composition includes muscle mass, fat mass, bone mass, among others. Objective: To analyze the scientific evidence on physical fitness and body composition in university students. Methods: A systematic review of studies on physical fitness and body composition of university students was carried out based on the PRISMA guidelines. Scopus and Web of Science databases were consulted. The methodological quality assessment scale determined the risk of bias of the publications. Results: Forty-two studies from 17 countries were analyzed. The information was organized on the basis of the variables body composition, muscular strength, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, speed and coordination abilities. Conclusions: The physical fitness of college students has declined in recent decades, according to comparative studies with populations from 20 to 30 years ago. Although height and body mass index increased in some populations, the level of motor skills decreased. This evidences the need to implement strategies that include more physical activity in university students(AU)