<![CDATA[Physical fitness is a fundamental determinant of athletic performance and is strongly influenced by dietary intake and lifestyle behaviors. Adequate protein consumption is essential for muscle development and energy metabolism, whereas smoking has detrimental effects on lung function and aerobic capacity. This study aimed to explore the relationship between protein intake and smoking habits with physical fitness, measured by maximal oxygen uptake, among athletes of Persela Football Academy under-eighteen. A quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design was applied, involving adolescent male athletes. Protein intake was assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, smoking habits were obtained through structured interviews, and maximal oxygen uptake was measured using the multistage fitness test. Findings revealed that the average daily protein intake of athletes was relatively high, while the mean maximal oxygen uptake score fell within the good category. Correlation analysis demonstrated a significant association between protein intake and aerobic fitness, as well as between smoking habits and aerobic fitness. The results indicate that lower protein intake and higher smoking frequency are linked to reduced physical fitness capacity. This study highlights the importance of nutritional interventions and healthy lifestyle promotion as integral components in the development of youth athletes to optimize performance and prevent decline in fitness.]]>
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