Effect of an exercise program on the body posture of young school-aged pupils

Abstract

Introduction: Physical activity plays a crucial role in children's overall health, particularly in preventing musculoskeletal disorders. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise program integrated into physical education classes at schools, with the goal of improving the posture of younger schoolage pupils. Material and Methods: The group consisted of Ʃ63 pupils, comprising boys (n=30) aged 10,21±0,42 years, and girls (n=32) aged 10,32±0,37. The Intervention Movement Program involved selected tools using musical-movement and dance activities, implemented for a period of 18 weeks, twice a week per 45 minutes within the lessons of Physical and Sports Education. As far as data collection, standardized PE test was used, and the Klein-Thomas test modified by Mayer was used to evaluate the body posture. Based on statistical evaluation, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used, the effect of the implemented movement program on the significance level 0,05 was verified. Results: A significant progress in the quality of body posture in both groups of observed girls (p<0.5%) and boys (p<0.5%) was observed. There were significant changes in all evaluated segments of both girls’ and boys’ groups - Head and neck posture (p<0.5%), Chest shape (p<0.5%), Abdomen and pelvic inclination (p<0.5%), Total Spine curvature (p<0.5%), Shoulder blades/ scapulae (p<0.5%). Conclussion: Regular and targeted movement activities of students in the school environment significantly affect the quality of posture as one of the manifestations of health. Based on the findings listed above, an exercise program with music and dance activities can be considered a highly effective tool.