MST-Department of Recreation Management & Exercise Science

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Assessment of the physical education learning resources in selected secondary schools in Uasin Gishu District.
(Kenyatta University, 1990) Simiyu, Wyclif!e W. Njororai
The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between the provision of physical education learning resources and each of the following variables, namely school location, sponsorship, gender, nature, sch901•~.age, enrollment financial allocation to physical education activities and the level of emphasis on physical educarion in the school. Forty secondary schools were randomly selected on a stratified basis from all the secondary school in Uasin Gishu District of the Rift Valley province of Kenya. There were representative samples of the school categories in terms of location, gender, sponsorship and school nature. A Questionnaire was used in the data collection for the sample schools selected. In each school, the Heaq of physical education department, or in his absence the Games Master filled the first part of the Questionnaire. The Head Teacher or the deputy filled the second part. The data collected was analysed using computer following the Statistical Package mor Social Sciences (SPSS) programme. The type of computer used was International Computer Limited (ICL) 75402 system. Three stages were fol~owed in the analysis. A descriptive analysis of the raw data was carried out. A Chi-square test was then used to test the foru1ated hypotheses. A contigence coefficient was calculated to test the magnitude of the re1ation~hips. The over-all research design was expost factor. The findings revealed that the factors of location, financial allocation, schooi enrollment, and level of emphasis on physical education in the school had significant relationship with the availability of a wider variety of outdoor facilities, equipment and maintenance of the outdoor facilities. Schoo1'sponsorship, gender, and nature of the school revealed no significant relationships with resource provision. The school age factor revealed only one significant re1a1ionship with equipment availability otherwise, it had no significant relationship with other resources namely reading materials and facilities. Indoor facilities and the reading materials were significantly inadequate in the majority of the sample schools. The level of significance at which the stated hypothesis were rejected or not rejected was P«.05. The recommendations based on the findings of this study were that:- the Ministry of Education should inspect and confirm that physical education is actually taught; assist in providing facilities, equipment and reading materials; school management boards to raise funds for acquisition of the resources and that the Kenya Institute of Education should distribute the reading materials they have developed for physical education to the schools at affordable price.
Motivational Factors that Affect Primary Schools Pupil’s Participation in Organized Sports in Shinyalu Division of Kakamega District, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2002) Mukala, Hannington B.
The study investigated motivational factors that affect pupil's participation in organized sport in Shinyalu Division of Kakarnega District. The research examined the most important factors in youth sport, which included interest in sport, perceptions of success in sport and perceptions of failure in sport. Data were collected by survey, which was conducted in nine schools in Shinyalu Division or Kakamcga District. The study sample consisted of 20 pupils from each school, five boys and five girls from class 5 and also five boys and five girls from class 6. Three schools from Shinyalu Division were used for pilot study, but did not feature in the main study. Pupils responded to a questionnaire that focused on three salient factors in children sports, that is; interest in sports, success in sports and failure in sports. The questionnaire, with a three point Likert scale required pupils to tick either "Agree', "Not sure" or "Disagree". Data obtained from the research instrument were analyzed using frequencies, percentages and Chi-square. Findings of the study were as follows: The reported interest of pupils in sport was high, 81.7% of the pupils' agreed to train for selection in the school team. Many of the pupils' (88.3%) agreed that by more training, they will do better in sports. Pupils' reported being attracted to sport for a variety of reasons where learning the sport skills (78.3%) was the core reason. Pupil's reported that they will participate in sport regardless of the results, where never win as a setback to participation in sport had 34.4%. It was reported that participation of pupil's in sports was limited by physiological reasons like exhaustion (63.9%), hunger (47.7% and injuries (62.2%). Pupil's reported that they like playing in a free environment with less restriction like influence of teachers (35.0%) and sport captains (32.8%). From the above findings, the following recommendations were made: 1. Teachers and all those concerned with children sports should maintain and increase children's interest in sports. 2. Teachers and those concerned with children sports should tap, nurture and develop the talent of children. To increase children's participation and performance in sports, emphasis should be laid on the learning aspect of sport, and the other factor will be attained. 4. While offering sport activities to children, all factors which limit participation should be monitored and controlled to avoid withdrawal from sports.
Positional assessment of selected skill related physical fitness components amongst male Kenyan basketball players
(Kenyatta University, 2007-10) Kamande, Mwangi Isaac
The game of basketball requires a mastery of several skills to play and perform well in a competition. The aim of this study was to establish the differences in the selected skill related components of physical fitness in relation to playing positions amongst male basketball players during the Kenya Basketball Federation (KBF) 2005 Premier League season. The study assessed agility, leg explosive power and aerobic capacity in relation to playing positions. The league comprised 10 teams of 12 registered players each, thus the target population was 120 players. The sample included 48 male basketball players from 4 teams which is 40% of the total population. A stratified random sampling procedure was used to select the teams used in the study. Strathmore University "Blades" male basketball players were used for the pilot study. An ex-post facto research design was used in this study. The data obtained through this study was subjected to statistical analysis using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (S. P. S. S.). Descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation were used in the analysis of the data. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to test the research hypotheses. The data collected were then presented using tables. Four hypotheses were tested and the results showed that there were no significant differences in agility amongst the guards who were 23 (48% of the total population), forwards 17 (35%) and centers 8 (17%) at p< 0.05. There were no significant differences in leg explosive power amongst the guards, forwards and centers at p< 0.05. There were also no significant difference in aerobic capacity amongst guards, forwards and centers at p< 0.05. The null hypotheses proposed were therefore not rejected. The players did not show significant differences in the scores of the components tested and this was attributed to the lack of specificity during training which takes place in total contrary to the specific requirements of the positional roles. The study recommended further research to establish the training regimens followed by various teams during the off-season and in the competitive season and especially as regards the requirements of the positional roles not only in basketball but also in other sports. The study also recommended that Kenya Basketball Federation and the clubs initiate fitness testing programmes so as to establish norms for the Kenyan basketball players. This would help to form a basis for developing the selection criteria and guidelines for policy formulation.
The grand coalition goverment in kenya: a recipe for sports development
(International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, 2011-02) Rintaugu, E.G.; Mwangi, I.; Ngetich, E.D.K.
Numerous social theories have been explored to unearth the role of sports in society but consensus remains remote. Political parties and politicians present their manifestos to the electorates on the eve of elections to solicit for political candidacy and eventual incumbency. Kenyan political parties/politicians just like in other parts of the world have championed the youth agenda through sports. Some of the electoral promises however are never implemented fully, with some of the youth agenda fading as soon as the election-earring period is over. This paper discusses some of the social theories which are tenable when censoring sports and politics at international and national level. The pledges on sports development made during the controversial 2007 general elections by the two main political parties in Kenya, Party of National Unity(PNU) and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are weighted against session paper No.3 of 2005 on Sports Development. The recommendations which the Grand Coalition Government needs to embrace for the sake of Sports Development in Kenya are made.
The traditional games of the Akamba of Kenya
(2011-08-03) Kithuka, Munyao Raphael
Traditional games have been recognized as a significant part of nations' cultural heritage. Today, in circumstances of global integration, people's future mostly depends on preservation of their cultural variety. Most of the traditional games and sports, expressions of indigenous cultures and ways of life contributing to lie common identity of humanity are under the threat of waning. Additionally, those that are surviving are threatened by imminent disappearance and extinction under the combined effect of globalization and harmonization of the rich diversity of world sport heritage. Prior to this study, research on traditional games within Eastern Kenya particularly of the Akamba, as it is with many parts of the world, had to a great extent been ad hoc, and influenced by theoretical traditions and practices. It is this trepidation and, informed by global research trends, that this research was undertaken to identify, describe and document the traditional games of the Akamba on the basis of the rules that governed them, facilities and equipment used, their significance to the individuals and the community as well as the socio-cultural settings within which they were performed. Twenty three (23) traditional games were identified through qualitative design tool of interviews. Respondents of seventy (70) years and above were purposively identified and interviewed. They were sampled through the non-probability, purposive, sequential sampling method. All the information collected was examined, compared and classified in accordance with specific standards advocated by Clarke and Clarke (1984). For comparison and analyses purposes, these games were classified using Cheska's (1987) scheme with three games falling under games of physical challenge; fourteen games under games of physical skill and strategy; one game under group interaction; one game under rhythm and singing games; one game under games of imagination; one game under mental games category and two games under games of environmental context. Games were performed within the community's family homestead with the peers and significant others playing a major role in teaching them. Games were crucial in instilling desired skills, attitudes and values, improving fitness and health, fostering social cohesion, as sources of fun, recreation and relaxation, maintenance of ethnic and group identity as well as the medium through which the common -y values, traditions and culture were reinforced and preserved. Arising from these findings, it is recommended that all possible efforts need to be made to document, revive and popularize these games through the Ministry of Education, ministry of Higher Education Science and Technology, Ministry of Gender and Sports as well as universities and research organizations. Measures should be taken that involve education, incorporating them in texts and academic curriculum popularizing them through modern technological advancements as well as creating forums for mass participation. Improving health through these games would significantly reduce healthcare cost and increase production as well as giving people an opportunity to practice their cultural activities.
Use of exercise therapy in the management of diabetes mellius by adult diabetic at Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
(2011-11-02) Wachira, L. M.
Diabetes mellitus has become a serious health concern in Kenya. This condition cannot be cured but can be controlled and managed successfully using diet, medication, exercise and adequate patient education and awareness. Studies have shown that exercise is the single most important factor for successful management of Type l and Type 2 diabetes. The study sought to investigate the use of exercise therapy in the management of diabetes by adult diabetic patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). This was done by assessing the patients' level of physical activity, their knowledge on exercise in managing diabetes, factors associated with the patients' participation in physical activity (PA) and the relationship between the diabetics PA levels and their age, gender, duration of the condition, type of diabetes and knowledge on exercise. The study design was descriptive survey. This was ideal to obtain information that best described diabetics' perception, awareness, attitude, practice and behaviour towards exercise. The study was conducted at KNH targeting diabetic patients seeking treatment at the diabetes clinic. It involved 140 patients who were selected using the simple random sampling technique. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 11.5. Descriptive statistics such as means, frequencies and percentages were used to present the findings. Chi-square ()e) measure of associations and influence to predict relationships was used to analyse data at level of significance of .05. The assessment of PA levels was based on the ratio of exercise metabolic rate (MET). Findings indicated that a large group 64 (46.1 %) had low level of physical activity when compared to recommendations for achieving health-related benefits of exercise in managing diabetes. It was also found that many of the patients, 64 (46.0%) had average level of knowledge on exercise and diabetes with 63 (45.3%) of them having sufficient knowledge on exercise for management of diabetes. Factors that were greatly associated with participation in physical activity included the perception that daily chores at home and at work constituted sufficient activity (40.3%), lack of knowledge on the kinds of exercises to perform (38.1%) and presence of discomfort due to the disease (37.4%). Testing of the hypotheses yielded conclusions that the patients' age, type of diabetes, duration of diabetes and knowledge on exercise had significant relationships with the patients' physical activity levels while gender had no significant relationship with the physical activity levels. It was also concluded that the diabetics' physical activity level, though seen as sufficient to a good percentage of diabetics, may not be sustainable. This is because physical activities are not consistent in occurrence due to constant changes in active practice at different seasons and state of diabetes control. This may deter the effectiveness of exercise therapy in this population. The diabetics also portrayed sufficient knowledge on exercise as taught at the clinic but lacked in fundamental instruction, supervision and specific exercise prescription resulting in difficulty and contraindications. The study recommends that an exercise prescription manual, for both recreational and clinical practice in managing diabetes in Kenya, be formulated and strictly followed. Diabetics' exercise constraint, be addressed by the involved sectors to motivate diabetics to exercise more. As this was a baseline study, more research should be done to strengthen and address finer issues in exercise therapy such as complications of diabetes.
Efficacy of a physical exercise programme on the stereotypic behaviour and response amongst austitic children at the Nairobi Autism Unit, Kenya
(2011-11-02) Maithya, Edna Katiwa
Autism is a developmental disorder, which is typically characterized by an inability to develop normal social relationships, compulsive and ritualistic behaviour and failure to develop normal intelligence. A characteristic feature commonly seen among people with autism is the abnormal stereotype behaviours. These behaviours engaged in at various times also inhibit the ability to learn or take part in activities appropriately. This study analysed the efficacy of using structured physical exercises as an intervention for managing stereotype behaviours in autism. The Nairobi Autism Unit for individuals with autism was purposively selected. All the 34 autistic children at the unit constituted the sample of the study. Quasi-experimental research using a single-group pre-test and post-test design was used with the experimental group (autistic children) being given treatment using structured physical exercises for a period of eleven weeks. The physical exercise circuit included warm up, flexibility, cardiovascular and endurance, musclestrengthening and cool down activities. The adaptive exercise routine used structured teaching principles explained by Hong (2001) and Schopler, et al., (1995). The Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist was used as the main tool for collecting data. A pre-test was done during the first week of the school term to establish the children's behaviour levels in the different domains. This was followed by subsequent tests periodically, at 3 weeks and 4 weeks intervals up to a final test after the eleventh week. The dependent variables comprised those behaviours found in the ATEC evaluation checklist and included: Speech/ Language/ Communication, Sensory/ Cognitive awareness, Sociability and Health/ Physical behaviours. Age, gender and level of autism were the independent variables. The raw data was summarized using descriptive statistics. To test the hypotheses, dependent t-test was used where hypotheses were either rejected or not rejected at 0.05 alpha level. The results of the study were then presented in tables and charts. The results indicated that the structured physical exercises had a positive significant impact on all the four behaviour domains of children at the Nairobi Autism Unit. With regard to gender, age group and level of autism, the males, aged 8-12 and 13-17 years as well as those children with mild level autism did not improve significantly in speech/ language/ communication. The improvement of children aged 18 years and above was not significant in any of the behaviour variables. Structured physical exercise is thus recommended as a means to manage the challenging behaviour and enhance better health and wellness amongst individuals with autism. Creative methods for including physical exercises in the daily schedule for autistic individuals could be very beneficial. There is also a major task for curriculum planners to develop an appropriate Physical Education syllabus. Studies need to be carried out to establish the physical fitness levels of individuals with autism for the establishment of more specific programmes. Different populations with behavioral challenges should also be used as samples in physical exercise intervention other than individuals with autism.
Special educators' use of selected instrutional strategies in physical education in special units in public primary schools in Nairobi province
(2011-11-24) Mwangi, Jane Wairimu; Mwisukha, A.; Njororai, W.W.S.
The extent of effectiveness of special education teachers' use of appropriate instructional strategies has been an issue of concern Any ineffective use of the recommended instructional strategies can discourage learners with a disability from full participation in physical education. Results from various studies have shown that regular curriculum objectives are difficult to interpret for learners with a mental disability. It was in view of this background that the study was conducted to investigate the special education teachers' use of selected instructional strategies in physical education. The commonly recommended strategies in special education curriculum include: assessment, consultation with a multi-disciplinary team, individualized instruction, content modification and adaptations, behavior management, remedial teaching and peer tutoring. The study was conducted in 22 special units established in the public primary schools in Nairobi province. The sample size of the study constituted 86(75%) respondents of the 115 special education teachers deployed by the TSC in these units after attaining some special education training. The study used descriptive survey design. Questionnaires prepared on the basis of the commonly recommended instructional strategies were utilized. Data collected from the research instruments was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and responses to each questionnaire items presented in frequency distributions. Critical values for Chi- Square test were used to determine significant relationship between special education teachers' use of selected instructional strategies and: level of professional qualification, experience, number of learners in a class, number of lessons in the regular class and locality of the school at a level of significance of 0.05. Results showed that majority of the special education teachers were female (67; 80.7%). A larger proportion of the special educators had taught for a period of more than a year (75; 84.3%), which was considered sufficient experience and this positively influenced the special educators successful use of selected instructional strategies. All respondents had varied form of special needs training. The level of education had an influence in effective content modification, behavior management and consultation. Those with lower levels of professional qualifications either infrequently or sometimes used the instructional strategies. The locality of school whether slums or suburb did not have a negative effect on special educators' use of instructional strategies.. Most of the special education teachers, 58(69.9%) did not have lessons in the regular class this did not negatively affect use of instructional strategies. Majority of the special education teachers, (50; 60.2%) handled a class of 6 -10 learners. This did not negatively affect the use of instructional strategies but there was ineffective content modification for classes with over 10 learners. However, majority of special educators, (53; 63.9%) revealed that they had insufficient training in adapted physical education. Majority of special education teachers (57; 25.91%) suggested that they needed refresher courses in APF. The special education teachers cited lack of APE syllabus and APE equipment as the main challenges affecting the effective use of instructional strategies. There is need to reduce gender imbalance in the special units. There is need for head teachers to maintain the recommended number of 3-5 learners per teacher. Special educators with lower qualification need to further their education and Ministry of Basic Education to motivate already experienced teachers to prevent quilting. Policies regarding special needs children should be emphasized in public schools to facilitate the learners with mental impairment to attain their optimal performances PE
Aerobic capacity among the rugby union players in 2005 kenya League
(2011-11-28) Kamenju, Janet Wanjira
The capacity to replenish the energy required for endurance activities is one of the important factors that determine an individual's ability to exercise for a long time without fatigue. For an individual to attain the best performance, V02 max improvement is one aspect of training that should not be ignored (Seiler, 2005). This study assessed the aerobic capacity of selected male players taking part in 2005 Kenya Cup Rugby League. Stratified random sampling was used to obtain a sample of 90 male players from Impala, Harlequins and Nakuru RFC. The selection was based on the 2004 final league standings. Quasi-experimental research design was used. A pre-test using the multistage shuttle run test was administered to estimate the endurance capacity of the subjects at the beginning of the competitive season. A post-test was conducted eight weeks after commencement of competition to assess any changes in V02 max levels. Prediction of players' maximum oxygen uptake was based on their performance on the Multi-stage fitness test validated by Brewer et al (1998). The computer software package (SPSS) was used to process the data. The descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. A t-test was used to assess the differences between pretest and posttest, while ANOVA was used to analyse the differences in V02 max among the three clubs as well as between playing positions. The significant F-ratio was further analysed using Tukey HSD test. The results of the study were presented using graphs and tables. The findings of the study were as follows; there was no significant difference in players' aerobic capacity between pre-test and post-test. Players' V02 max at pre-test was 43.14m1/kg/min and 42.62m1/kg/min at post-test. Similarly, there was no significant difference in aerobic capacity amongst players of different age groups. The findings also indicated that there were significant differences in aerobic capacity among the top (44.5m1/kg/min), middle (40.2ml/kg/min) and the bottom (42.2ml/kg/min) ranked teams. The Tukey HSD test showed significant differences between Impala RFC and Harlequins RFC (5.47*) and also between Nakuru RFC and Harlequins RFC (4.16*) at pre-test. There was also significant difference between Impala and Harlequins (4.23*) at post-test.
The efficacy of low-impact aerobic dance on health-related fitness: the case of Kenyatta University students
(2011-11-28) Muasya, Vincent; Wanderi, P. M.; Simiyu, N.W.W.
This study analyzed the efficacy of low-impact aerobic dance on health-related fitness variables among 60 purposely-selected Kenyatta University students who were members of the University's Health and Recreation Centre. The one quasi-experimental research design was used in this study where a pre-test, treatment and a post-test were done for each of the fitness variables. A pre-test on the selected variables was done on the subjects a week after the beginning of the first semester. A post-test was then conducted at the end of eight weeks. The dependent variables tested included low back flexibility, cardiorespiratory fitness, percent body fat, abdominal strength endurance and upper body strength endurance while the independent variables included low-impact dance and related exercises. The study also included resting heart rate as a dependent variable because of its significance in aerobic training and to good health. This study found out that the effect of these four intervening variables was not significant because all subjects improved significantly. Therefore, all the stated hypotheses were not rejected. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a series of paired t-tests where all hypotheses were rejected or accepted at 0.05 alpha level. This study revealed that lowimpact aerobic dance and related exercises had a positive significant impact on low back flexibility, cardiorespiratory endurance, percent body fat, abdominal endurance and upper body strength of Kenyatta University students who were subjects of the eight-week programme. Low-impact aerobic dance is thus recommended as a means to decreasing major consequences of inactivity and sedentary lifestyle. From this study, it was concluded that low-impact aerobic is a means to better health, wellness and alleviating hypokinetic ailments. There is thus need for the adoption of low-impact aerobic workouts as opposed to traditional aerobics. Similar studies need to be carried out to establish the effect of other forms of low-impact contemporary and traditional dances on health-related fitness using different population.
The psycho-social factors affecting participation in swimming in Nairobi secondary schools
(2011-11-28) Gathwe, Mary Mwaniki; Mwangi, Peter Wanderi; Njororai, W.W.S.
Participation in sports has been encouraged to all age groups for its physiological, psychological and social benefits. However, if any sport is to be embraced for its potential benefit, there is need for the potential participant to be motivated so as to initiate and sustain participation. The study therefore sought to examine factors that affect students' participation in the sport of swimming in Nairobi province, with a view of high lighting salient factors that affect their participation, so that the factors that limit participation may be monitored and controlled to avoid withdrawal. The study targeted a population of Form Two and Three students and teachers. Purposive stratified and random sampling was used to select the sample, consisting of 24 secondary schools. Six hundred students and 24 sports/swimming teachers responded to the questionnaires. The following major variables were considered; facilities, funding, significant others, religion, gender, academic load, and other (or level of) interests. T-test for equality of means was used to establish variables significantly influencing participation at p:50.05 level of significance. Further, multiple regression was used to establish variables that significantly influenced participation in swimming (positively or negatively), giving a t-value for each variable tested. Level of interest was identified as the major significant variable influencing participation, as there was not much interest in swimming. Funding, significant others (friends) and facilities followed in that order as other significant variables influencing participation in swimming. Peers were a negative influence as they did not encourage participation in swimming. Mean rate of participation was above average (above 8.77) and higher in single sex schools (8.94) compared to the mixed schools (8.24). Significant predictor variables of participation in single sex schools category were: facilities, funding, other interest and level of interest. In the mixed school category, the significant participation predictor variables were: training (personnel), level of interest and shyness of opposite sex. As a result of the above findings, the following recommendations were proposed. Kenya Swimming Federation, in liaison with Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association, should organize a regular swimming league to promote the sport in schools, particularly for girls whose active participation declines at this age. The government, through the Ministries of Education and Gender, Sports and Social Services, should liaise with Non Governmental Organisations (NGO's) and other sponsors to fund construction of more swimming pools conveniently accessible to the public, especially within or near public schools. This would avail opportunity for more students and general public to have access and learn how to swim, thus creating early and sustained interest in swimming. Marketing strategies should be improved so as to increase sponsorship during swimming galas as this will reduce costs to schools or parents. This will also increase swimming awards by providing more tangible incentives that would attract and increase students' participation.
Influence of islam on sports participation among muslim students in Kenya public universities
(2011-11-28) Kweyu, Issah Wabuyabo; Wamukoya, Edwin K.; Ahmad, Shakil
Islam means submission and peace (Quraishy, 1987). There is a strong theological background supporting sports in Islam (Qur' an, 16:8). However, this is on condition that it is lawful and does not hamper other religious obligations (Qur'an 2: 219, 5: 91-92). Conclusive studies validate significant benefits of participating in physical activities. Exercise has been used in prevention and management of coronary heart disease, hypertension, blood lipids and lipoprotein profile, cardiac function, bone mineral status, smoking risks, body composition and weight control, blood glucose regulation, musculoskeletal disorders, stress management and mental health among others. Despite this, there is still a gap between the theory and practice regarding participation in sports among Muslim students in Kenyan universities. The purpose of this study was to find out what causes the low Muslim students' participation in sports and in which ways Islam influences their participation in sports. The study adopted a survey design. This enabled the researcher to cover a wide area and acquire as much information as possible. This also enabled the researcher get the information about the situation as it is. Factors under investigation were gender as an independent variable while participation and level of performance were the dependent variables. The target population was 920 from the six public universities in Kenya. Under the guidance of the supervisors, a questionnaire was constructed on a five - point likert scale and then used to acquire information. Random sampling was used to select 252 out of the target population of 920. Descriptive statistics were used to describe students' participation levels in sport. ANOVA was used to determine gender differences. Results showed significant differences in gender participation levels. Three out of five general factors (lack of information, facilities not convenient and lack of skills/friends with skills in the sport) affecting Muslim student' participation in sports showed significant difference at 0.047, 0.000 and 0.010 respectively. The following socio-economic factors showed significant difference (sport not for my gender and sport making me develop muscles) at 0.001 and 0.000 respectively. Three faith-related factors (participating is Sunnah, sports uniform conflict Islam dress code and audience of opposite gender) affecting Muslim student' participation in sports were found to significantly influence their participation at 0.027, 0.012 and 0.004 respectively. Based on the findings of this study the following recommendations were suggested to guide in policy formulation. Games teachers and coaches should be designed to fit various participants without infringement on their faith by having programmes that do not segregate on basis of faith. Department in charge of sports and games in institutions like the universities and teacher colleges should expand awareness of benefits of participating in physical activities among the Muslim society so as to change the generalized misconceptions held about participation in Physical activities. Institutions need to expand sports facilities to help attract and encourage both male and female students to participate in physical activities.
Effectiveness of physical education programme on health-related fitness of the physically challenged pupils : a case of Joyland Special School, Kisumu
(2011-12-15) Odiango, Roselyne Ajwan'g
In this study, the health-related fitness levels of the persons with physical disabilities who participated in an eight-week physical education programme were measured using the project UNIQUE physical fitness test battery of Winnick and Short (1985). The sample comprised 18 boys and girls from classes five, six and seven. Out of the 34 subjects initially sampled for the study 3 did not complete all the tests due to sickness. Data was therefore analysed for 31 subjects i.e. 17 boys and 14 girls for consistency (N = 31). Pretest and post-test design was used in this study. A pre test was carried out two weeks after opening the school and a post-test eight weeks later at the end of the treatment period. The data collected was descriptively analysed and one-way ANOVA was computed to determine the significance of difference between pre and post-test means of the dependent variables under investigation by gender and across the ages. The null hypotheses were rejected at p < 0.05 level of significance. The findings on the healthrelated fitness status of the participants showed they had a lower fitness level at pre-test compared to the post-test. This study established that in cardio- respiratory endurance, abdominal strength endurance and upper body strength boys performed better than girls. In low-back flexibility and resting heart rate both boys and girls demonstrated an improvement at all ages. The overall findings of the study established that there were significant improvements on cardio-respiratory endurance, low-back flexibility, and abdominal strength endurance. However, improvements on upper body strength and body composition were not statistically significant at p < 0.05 level. The result of the findings showed that physical education improves health related fitness of persons with physical disabilities. The study recommends that the programme can be used for the purpose of enhancing the persons with physical disabilities health status at all levels of the education system. The policy makers, curriculum developers at KIE, adapted teacher training institutions should review the adapted physical education curriculum with a view to including more intense activities which can promote the health of persons with physical disabilities. Physical Education programmes should be encouraged in all the schools involving persons with physical disabilities. The study suggest that a study be carried out to establish fitness levels of persons with physical disabilities including larger samples from primary, secondary and university levels, there is need to replicate the current study on other categories of special needs groups.
Motivation perspectives affecting adult participation in leisure and recreation activities in health clubs within five-star hotels in Nairobi, Kenya
(2011-12-16) Pepela, Anthony Wekesa
Despite hotel entrepreneurs structuring leisure and recreation activities in ways that maximise inception and participation. most health club members prefer activities that do not expend much energy. As such most of them do not attain requisite levels of physical fitness while others drop-out all together after some time. They thus do not experience physiological benefits. This coupled with the change in life style; diet and technology pose a great health risk. This study was therefore designed to determine factors that motivate adults, influence their preferences, choice and possible drop-out from participating in different recreation activities in five-star hotel health clubs in Nairobi. The study adopted a descriptive survey method that covered 109 health club members strategically sampled and 12 health club instructors purposively sampled from four out of the eight five-star hotels in Nairobi. Out of the 109 respondents, n=54 (49.5%) were males while n=55 (50.46%) were females. Of these respondents, n=65 (60%) were married, n=43 (39%) single, and n=1 (1%) divorced. Out of 106 respondents who stated their occupation, n=64 (60%) were employed, n=28 (26.4%) were self employed, n=12 (11.3%) not employed and n=3 (2.8%) retired. Data were collected using a close ended questionnaire which was subjected to the health club members and an open ended interview schedule subjected to the health club instructors. Data were then analysed through the statistical package of Social Sciences (SPSS) for descriptive statistics by use of factor analysis, one way ANOVA, and t-test. The results indicated significant differences in factors that; motivate both males and females to participate in physical activities (p=0.01<0.05). influence their choice of activities (p=0.01<0.05). make them dislike other activities (p=0.006<0.05), prefer the activities they choose (p=0.01<0.05) and those that may lead to their drop-out (p=0.0<0.05).The one way ANOVA results revealed that there were significant differences between males and females in; achievement (p=0.003<0.05), extrinsic (p=0.001<0.05), fitness orientation (p=0.0001< 0.05) and skill development(p=0.0001 <0.05) factors that motivated participation in physical activities, while there were no significant differences in situational factors (p=0.242>0.05). The statistical analysis further indicated that there were no significant differences in extrinsic factors that lead to drop-out in regards to gender, while significant differences existed for the intrinsic factors that lead to drop-out. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the policy makers start a campaign to demystify the idea that some activities are culturally inappropriate for specific genders and that the hotels introduce more exciting physical activities so as to facilitate higher membership enrolment and encourage the existing members not to drop-out. This will in effect enable; more members achieve their set goals. the hotel health clubs to be more self reliant and the government to realise its goal of creating a healthy nation.
The tennis serve and its relationship to performance in competition: a study of selected matches during the 1997 Kenya National tennis championships
(2012-02-09) Gathege, Dorothy Waithira; Boit, Michael K.; Kiganjo, George
The tennis is probably the most important stroke in tennis as it is a stroke used to put the ball into play and the means by which all points are started. The purpose of this study was to find out the relationship of the serve to performance by focusing on male and female players during the Kenya National Tennis Championships attracted players from main urban towns in Kenya. The matches were played on murram courts and was organized on qualifying draws and main draw. Subjects of this study were drawn from the qualifying draws and main draw using stratified random sampling. All matches for the semi-final and final were used for the study. A total of 41 matches, 26 male and 15 female matches were observed. This included winners and losers in both gender groups. A manual charting systems was used to collect the data by the researcher and her assistants who watched the matches and recorded the frequencies of the wins (good/in, aces) and errors (nets, outs, mishits) committed in the first serve and second serve for the two opposing players. Descriptive statistical analysis using mean scores and percentage tabulations showed that male and female winners executed more good/in serves and also ace serves. The winners were also observed to have executed more net errors and less out errors as opposed to the losers. More wins (good/in, ace) and faults (net, out, mishit errors) were recorded in the first serve than in the second serve. Inferential Statistics indicated that there was a significant difference at p05 between the male winners and losers in the execution of aces using the 't' test and hence the hypothesis that there was no significant difference between the two groups was rejected. The outcome of this study confirmed the works of Brabenec (1994a), Elliot Kilderry (1993), Moore Chaffin (1982) and of Kiganjo Njororai (1997) which found that players who make few errors emerge as winners of tennis match.
Operational strategies used by church guest houses in promoting domestic tourism through conferencing in Nairobi, Kenya
(2012-02-17) Kwenga, Japhet M.; Wamukoya, Edwin K.
The purpose of this study was to establish the operational strategies used by church guesthouses in promoting domestic tourism through conferencing in Nairobi. The study aimed at filling the knowledge gap of the conferencing business in the church guest houses, since most studies have only been carried out in commercial hospitality institutions. Based on modification of Ehrenberg's framework, the study sought to: (1) establish the operational strategies that church guest houses used in promoting domestic tourism through conferencing in Nairobi. (2)Asses the buying criteria and perception of customers of church guest houses (3) Identify the challenges facing conference business in church guest houses, and recommend strategies for business improvement in conference tourism. The study was carried out in Nairobi western region where most of the church guesthouses are located. Purposive and accidental sampling methods were used to carry out the study focusing the respondents with the required information. Structured, non-structured questionnaires and observation checklist were used to collect the data. Qualitative mode of inquiry was the main mode employed in this study though minimal quantitative mode was also used. The data, which was in narrative form, was analyzed through qualitative data analysis technique. The results showed that church guest houses employed a range of operational strategies to promote domestic tourism through conferencing. These strategies included provision of both physical and technical conference facilities, they are located in quiet isolated areas which are ideal for conference activities, have well organized human resource structures, they have also put in place some limited business promotion methods, also they have employment some pro-leisure tourism techniques and have employed various means to finance their businesses. Assessment of the buying criteria and perception of customers in church guest houses revealed that: quiet and isolated locations, good physical and sufficient technical conference facilities, excellent service by qualified staff and fair prices influence the customers into conference business with these guest houses. The results also revealed the challenges and recommended strategies for business improvement in conference tourism. Based on the findings of this study, it is adequate to conclude that operational strategies employed by the church guest houses to promote domestic tourism trough conferencing are effective but need to be restructured and modernized. It is hoped that the findings of the study will provide information on the role played by church guest houses in promoting domestic tourism through conferencing in Nairobi. This is vital to researchers wishing to carry out studies on conferencing industry, especially within church guest house. It will also provide information to policy makers such as Kenya Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), Ministry of Tourism and other tourism industrial players, so that they recognize church guest houses as a viable sector of the hospitality industry.
An analysis of offensive patterns of play of Kenyan male handball teams in national tournaments
(2012-02-27) Odero, Martin Ngesa; Wamukoya, Edwin K.; Goodwin, Y.
The objective of every handball team in competition is to advance the ball as fast as possible to the opponents' goalmouth and attempt to make a score without opposition. The wish of every handball coach is therefore, to train a team in offensive patterns of play that could be used to advance the ball to the opponent’s goalmouth and make a score. This study analysed and established such offensive patterns of play by Kenyan Male Handball teams during the 1998 National Tournaments. Twenty matches sampled from five tournaments in Kenya were used. At the end of the matches, there were groups of winners and losers. The performances of these groups were analysed under counter attack and positional play patterns of attack. The performances of these groups were analysed under counter attack and positional play patterns of attack. The data was collected by observing pre-recorded videotapes. The collected data was descriptively analysed using tables and charts to obtain the frequencies, percentages, means, variances and standard deviations of the outcomes. Inferentially, the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze the offensive performance between and within the two groups. The results showed significant differences between the successful and unsuccessful rates of counter attack and positional play patterns in winners, losers, between winners and losers and in overall performance in offensive patterns of play. The level of significance was p0.05. The findings revealed that teams used both counter and positional play patterns. However, the use of positional play (82.17%) was more than counter attack (17.83%). Though more goals were scored from positional play (529) compared to counter attack goals (212), the study revealed that the counter attack success rate was higher (37%) compared to positional play (20%). It is therefore recommended that Kenyan Handball Coaches should exploit the counter attack patterns and vary their positional play patterns so as to improve in their scoring ability. Further studies in the same area with female teams, normal duration and larger samples are also necessary. The scientific approach to training and competition should also not be overlooked by coaches and trainers, in order to fully exploit and improve individual and team performance.
A study of selected technical and tactical aspects affecting the performance of top netball clubs in Kenya: a case of Nairobi province
(2012-05-07) Kerubo, Martha Akama; Wamukoya, Edwin K.; Asembo, J. M.
The concern in all sports is to prepare teams that can win in various competitive matches. Hence, the desire of every coach is to identify the main techniques and tactics that are crucial in enhancing winning. This study investigated whether passes, interceptions, centre pass patterns and shooting techniques influence the outcome of netball matches played by Nairobi province teams in Kenya. Twenty-four matches played by teams in the Kenya Netball Association in Nairobi province over three months were used. There were two groups of teams (winners and losers at the end of the matches. The performance of these groups was compared under four variables (successful and unsuccessful, passes, interceptions, centre pass patterns and shooting techniques). The data was collected by the researcher and two assistants by observing pre-recorded unedited tapes. These data were analyzed descriptively using tables charts, percentages, means and standard deviations. Inferentially, the independent samples t-test was used to analyze the difference between the two groups. The results showed a significant difference between the two groups (p<0.05) in both successful and unsuccessful passes, successful and unsuccessful direct centre pass pattern, successful stationary shooting, unsuccessful interceptions, and unsuccessful stationary shooting. The findings of the present study revealed that the teams studied were effective in using passes as their success rate was reasonably high (77.4%) compared to unsuccessful rate (22.6%). However, these teams should practice on interceptions, as their performance was very low in this technique. The teams involved in the present study prefer using stationary shooting and direct centre pass patterns to in-motion and indirect patterns. However, it is recommended that coaches of these and other teams in Kenya should exploit the indirect centre and in motion shooting patterns so as to vary their tactics. Further studies in the same area with larger samples and longer periods are also necessary in order to fully exploit and improve on the tactics and technique for winning.
An investigation into the specificity of the Giessener soccer fitness test
(2012-05-07) Asembo, John Musee
The current trend in Sports Science is to develop sport specific fitness tests which can be used to monitor the conditioning and training regimen in competitive sports. The purpose is to avoid over training which is associated with pathophysiological effects that deter performance. The present study investigated whether the Giessener Soccer Fitness Test is specific to the game of Soccer. Three teams' performance (Hockey, Rugby and Soccer) were compared. The Hockey team (n=25; age 24.48 ± 4.4. years; weight 69.2± 7.3Kg; and height. 173.8 ± 6.3cm) participated in the Kenya Hockey National League the Rugby team (n=30; age 21.96 ± 3.7 years; weight 73.33± 3.7Kg; and height 175.43± 5.17cm) took part in Kenya Cup Rugby League; while the Soccer team (age 23.88± 4.5 years; weight 66.1± 5.3Kg; height 172.9± 5.6cm) played in the Kenya Amateur Football National League. The three teams were randomly sampled. All the players were tested once during the mid season of their respective leagues on the Giessener Soccer Fitness Test instrument as described by Kruemmelbein et al.(1989(. The dependent variables measured were the resting heart rate, exercise heart rate, recovery heart rate (monitored) by auscultation using a stethoscope) and time (min) taken to perform the test. A one way analysis of variancea was used to determine whether the dependent variables varied significantly across the independent variable (type of sport); The Scheffes' test was applied where necessary while a paired t-test was applied to compare the results of this study with those of Kruemmelbein et al.(ebd,) The results showed no significant difference in the anthropometrical measures of age and height of the subject between the teams (p>0.05). However, a weak significant difference was established in the weight of the subjects between Soccer and Rugby as well as Hockey and Rugby teams (p>0.05).As pertains to the exercise heart rate, a strong significant difference was revealed in the resting heart rate between Soccer and Hockey groups (p<0.01), but no significant difference was established between Soccer and Rugby teams (p>0.05). For circuits one and town, no significant difference in exercise heart rate was revealed (p>0.05) between the teams. At circuits three, four, five, six, and average heart rate, a very strong significant difference was found between Soccer and each of Rugby and Hokey teams (p<0.001) but no significant difference was established between Rugby and Hockey for same circuits (p0.05). There was no significant difference between the groups in the time taken to perform the test (p>0.05). As regards the recovery heart rate and recovery pulse sum a very strong significant difference was established between Soccer and each of Rugby and Hockey (p<0.001), but no significant difference between Rugby and Hockey (p>0.05). The finding of this study suggest that the Giessener Soccer Fitness Test appears to be a specific test to the game of Soccer. However, more research ought to do to establish its diagnostic usefulness in soccer.
A comparative study of a proposed physical fitness programme as depicted in the fitness levels of fiteen and sixteen year olds in a Kenyan secondary school
(2012-05-31) Wasonga, T.A.
The Kenyan secondary schools' physical education syllabus shows an omission of physical fitness programmes. The contents are skill activities namely gymnastics, games, athletics, swimming and dance. This was a comparative study of fitness levels between secondary school students of Ruiru High school, Kiambu District who took part in the regular physical education lessons and students who took part in a proposed physical fitness programme. The research design involved pretest, treatment, and post-tests on eighty (80) students, forty (40) boys and forty (40) girls randomly selected and assigned to a study group and the normal group. Each group consisted of twenty (20) girls and twenty (20) boys. A test battery was constructed consisting of 1.5 mile run, sum of skinfold, 60 seconds sit-ups sit and reach test and pull-ups (boys) and flexed arm hang (girls). The selected fitness components, the dependent variables evaluated were cardio respiratory endurance, skinfold fat, abdominal muscle endurance, lower back and hamstring flexion, and arm and shoulder girdle strength. Fitness levels before and after treatment was measured. The results of the study indicated that there was no significant difference between the study group and normal pre-tests on all the dependent variables tested. There was no significant difference between the study group's pre-tests and post-tests results in cardio respiratory endurances, skinfold fat and in boys, lower back and hamstring flexion. However, the 't'-test results indicated a significance of difference at the .05 level results in abdominal muscular endurance, arm and should girdle strength though girls were better in lower back and hamstring flexion. In terms of percentage, there was approximately the same amount of change in boys and girls in all the dependent variables except strength. The results of this study indicate that a physical fitness programme enhances physical fitness levels of students. Children will fail to realize their physical potential in case of lack of physical fitness. A programme that improves physical fitness levels should be encouraged and incorporated in the physical education curriculum. These findings indicate that more studies on fitness levels in Kenya to establish standards and norms for Kenyan population need to be undertaken.

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