A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS AND ANXIETY LEVELS AMONG MIDDLE-AGED SWIMMERS AND NON-SWIMMERS

Abstract: The present study examined differences in anxiety between swimmers and non-swimmers in the age group of 24-30 years. A total of 185 participants, including 69 swimmers and 116 non-swimmers, were selected for the study. Anxiety levels were assessed using a standardized psychological anxiety scale. Mean scores, standard deviations, and the t-ratio were computed to determine group differences. Results revealed that non-swimmers demonstrated higher mean anxiety scores (M = 12.56, SD = 1.65) compared to swimmers (M = 10.31, SD = 1.35). However, the calculated t-ratio (t = 2.28) did not reach the level of statistical significance at the prescribed level, indicating no significant difference in anxiety between the two groups. Despite the lack of statistical significance, the findings suggest that participation in swimming may be associated with lower anxiety levels. The study highlights the potential psychological benefits of swimming and underscores the importance of physical activity in mental health promotion.

Keywords: Anxiety, Psychological Problems, Swimmers, Non-Swimmers, Physical Activity