The Effect of a Bodyweight-Based Exercise Program ( Using Quadrupedal Movements Training) on Motor Competence and Functional Movement in ۸ to ۱۰-Year-Old Children

Introduction: The present study aimed to investigate the impact of a bodyweight exercise program, through quadruped movements, on motor competence and functional movement in children aged ۸ to ۱۰ years. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, with a control group and a pre-test/post-test design, ۴۰ boys aged ۸ to ۱۰ years were selected from elementary schools in Baghmalek. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. During the pre-test phase, functional movement and motor competence were measured using the Functional Movement Screening (FMS) test and the Körperkoordinations Test für Kinder (KTK), respectively. Subsequently, the intervention group participated in a bodyweight training program through quadruped movements, consisting of three ۴۵-minute sessions per week for eight weeks. During this period, the control group only attended regular physical education classes. Each session was conducted with participants following a pre-recorded instructional video displayed on a large screen, under the supervision of a certified trainer who monitored the participants’ techniques and made adjustments as needed. At the end of the intervention, the dependent variables were measured again during the post-test phase. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests to compare pre-test and post-test scores within each group, and independent t-tests to compare changes between the intervention and control groups. Results: The bodyweight exercise program through quadruped movements significantly improved motor competence and functional movement in the intervention group, indicating that the intervention effectively enhanced various aspects of motor competence and functional movement patterns. All observed changes were statistically significant compared to the control group (p ≤ ۰.۰۵). Conclusion: The bodyweight exercise program through quadruped movements significantly enhanced motor competence and functional movement in children aged ۸ to ۱۰ years. Such bodyweight-based exercises can serve as an effective intervention to promote motor competence and functional movement in this age group.

کلیدواژه ها:

Bodyweight-BasedExercise ، Quadrupedal Movements Training ، Motor Competence ، Functional Movement ، Children