Physical fitness of visually impaired adolescent goalball players.
This study compared the physical fitness of 28 visually impaired goalball players (M=13 yr.) and a group of 27 less active age-matched adolescents. Physical characteristics (age, height, weight, sex) and visual acuity of the children were recorded. Body composition (Body Mass Index, skinfold thickness of triceps plus calf), musculoskeletal function (trunk-lift, curl-up, isometric push-up, shoulder-stretch tests) and aerobic function (1-mile run/walk test) were evaluated according to the Brockport Physical Fitness Test Battery. Also, anaerobic power was assessed by a vertical jump test. Physical fitness of visually impaired goalball players was higher than that of the more sedentary group (p<.05), except shoulder-stretch test values (p>.05). It was considered that directing visually impaired children to participation sports or recreational activities such as goalball has importance in improving their physical fitness.
Muğla School of Health Sciences, Muğla University.
Ilkim Citak
IC
Karakaya
Esra
E
Aki
Nevin
N
Ergun
D000293:Adolescent; D054874:Athletic Performance / Q000502:physiology; D001823:Body Composition / Q000502:physiology; D015992:Body Mass Index; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000502:physiology; D010807:Physical Endurance / Q000502:physiology; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000502:physiology*; D012885:Skinfold Thickness; D013177:Sports / Q000502:physiology*; D019987:Persons with Visual Disabilities / Q000145:classification*