The Effects of 10-week Integrated Neuromuscular Training on Fundamental Movement Skills and Physical Self-efficacy in 6–7-Year-Old Children

This study examined the effect of INT on process and product fundamental movement skill measures and physical self-efficacy in 6–7-year-old children. Ninety-four children from 2 primary schools were randomized into either a 10-week INT program or a control group (CON) (n = 41). Results indicated significantly greater increases in process fundamental movement skill (FMS) scores in INT vs. CON (p = 0.001). For product measures of FMS, 10-m sprint time, counter movement jump, seated medicine ball throw and standing long jump (all p = 0.001), all significantly increased to a greater extent in the INT group vs. CON. A significant group (INT vs. CON) × time (pre vs. post) × gender interaction for physical self-efficacy revealed increased physical self-efficacy pre to post INT, compared with CON but only for boys (p = 0.001). For girls, physical self-efficacy was not significantly different before to after the 10-week period for INT and CON groups. The results of this study suggest that replacing 1 of the 2 weekly statutory physical education (PE) lessons with an INT program over a 10-week period results in positive improvements in fundamental movement skill quality and outcomes in 6–7-year-old children. Integrated neuromuscular training also appears to increase physical self-esteem to a greater extent than statutory PE but only in boys.
Source: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research - Category: Sports Medicine Tags: Original Research Source Type: research