IMPACT OF VARIOUS SPORTS ACTIVITIES ON POSTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN SENIOR PRESCHOOL AND PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Abstract

Aim. The study investigates the impact of early engagement in various sports activities on the postural development and foot morphology of children. Material and methods. The study encompassed 80 children participating in sports and recreational activities, categorized into two age groups depending on sports activities: senior preschool (5–6 years) and junior school (7–9 years). Results. Findings indicated that posture and foot disorders were predominantly observed in the older age group (7–9 years). Scoliosis was noted in children engaged in basketball and martial arts (differences are significant compared to the younger age group), with a significant increase in cervical lordosis depth among martial arts practitio­ners. The study of foot morphology revealed a trend towards foot flattening in children involved in martial arts. Conclusion. The study reveals significant differences in posture and foot indicators among children participating in various sports groups. The severity and direction of these changes are contingent upon the type of sport and the duration of participation in sports and recreational activities. Notably, posture and foot disorders are more pronounced in sports that emphasize the development of a “dominant arm” or “dominant leg”.