EFFECTS OF STRENGTH TRAINING ON MOTOR COORDINATION AND POSTURAL BALANCE IN CHILDREN AGED 9 TO 11 YEARS

Abstract

Strength training has been recommended for children due to its benefits for physical and motor development, provided that it is properly planned and supervised. This study aimed to investigate the effects of strength training on motor coordination and postural balance in children aged 9 to 11 years. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, involving six children engaged in strength training and their respective parents or guardians. Motor coordination was assessed using the Carnaval (2002) tests, postural balance was evaluated through the KTK protocol, and parents participated in semi-structured interviews. The results showed improvements in all children in both motor coordination and postural balance after two months of training. Parents' reports corroborated these findings, indicating improvements that were also perceived in the children's daily activities. It is concluded that strength training, when properly planned and supervised, can positively contribute to the development of motor coordination and postural balance during childhood.