ABSTRACT
Objective of the study was to examine the effect of small-side mixed recreational games on physical characteristics of university youth. Methods: Twenty-six male chosen and divided randomly into experimental (n=16) and control group (n=9). Experimental group was offered mixed recreational games thrice a week for 12 weeks. Mixed games included small sided football, basketball and handball. Training was given for 30 minutes. Independent Ttest was used to check group differences at start and post intervention. Product Moment Correlation was used to check correlation between aerobic capacity and body fat. Results: Body fat percent (t23= -2.123, P= 0.045), aerobic capacity (t23= 2.220, P= 0.037), oxygen saturation (t23 = 2.182, P = 0.040) and resting heart rate (t23= 2.123, P= 0.045). Significant relationship between body fat and aerobic capacity was seen in the intervention group (r= -0.675, n=16, p= 0.004). Conclusions: It can be concluded that mixed recreational games are effective and should be promoted among youth for better health. Unstructured and supervised recreational games are effective in promoting physical health and are enjoyed by young participants.