Riand Resmana, Mardepi Saputra, Mario Febrian, Speriadi, Muhammad Arnando, Rully Effendi
Background: Several training models to increase VO₂max capacity have been discussed in previous studies. However, there is a scarcity of research on student engagement to improve outcomes. Objectives: To assess the extent to which training and circuit training methods improve students' VO₂max capacity. Methods: This study involved 34 students in a comparison/control group and used a two-group pretest-post-test design in a quasi-experimental study. The control group received circuit training, while the experimental group received the play training method. The process was three stages: pretest, therapy, and post-test. Initial data were collected for the pretest, and then there was a 16-session treatment phase, followed by a post-test phase. A multistage fitness test (bleep test) generated VO₂max capacity data. Results: The average pre-test score was 36.0±5.2, the average post-test score was 40.3±4.3, and the percentage increase was 11.9% in the Enough category. The experimental group had a significant impact on increasing VO₂max capacity (p<0.05). The control group also significantly increased VO₂max capacity (p<0.05). With an average pre-test score of 35.9±5.3 and an average post-test score of 40.8±5.2 and a percentage increase of 13.6% in the "enough" category. Therefore, the circuit training method provides a greater increase in VO₂max capacity. Conclusions: The play-training method and the circuit-training method have been proven to have a positive effect on increasing VO₂max capacity. This research is important for instructors, coaches, and PJOK teachers to be able to apply this training method in increasing VO₂max capacity. © 2026 The Author(s). Published by Al-Rafidain University.
Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sports Science, Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia; STOK Bina Guna, Medan, Indonesia
