The Influence of Burpee on Endurance and Short-Term Memory of Adolescents

Aim—The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of the Burpee exercise on the endurance and short-term memory of adolescents aged 15–16 years. Methods—The experiment was performed in a coeducational school in Kirov (Russia). The four-month study involved 52 adolescents of both genders. During the study period, 30 physical education lessons were held in each class. Adolescents from the control group were involved in a typical program (also aimed at improving endurance), and adolescents from the experimental group additionally performed the Burpee exercise. Endurance in adolescents was assessed by means of an “all-out” Running 2000 m test, and short-term memory was assessed by means of the Jacobs test (tests were performed before and after the programs). Results—An analysis of variance revealed an interaction effect (F = 28.733, η(p)(2) = 0.578 and p < 0.001, and F = 104.353, η(p)(2) = 0.676 and p < 0.001 for the Running 2000 m test and the Jacobs test, respectively). The control group improved by 1.9% (p > 0.05) in the Running 2000 m and by 5.5% (p > 0.05) in the Jacobs test. In the experimental group, both improved significantly by 8.6% (p < 0.05) in the Running 2000 m test and by 26.0% (p < 0.05) in the Jacobs test. Conclusion—The Burpee exercise could be included in physical education classes to improve endurance and short-term memory in 15–16-year-old.