PHYSICAL FITNESS OF VISUALLY IMPAIRED ADOLESCENT GOALBALL PLAYERS

KARAKAYA İ. Ç., AKI E., ERGUN N.

PERCEPTUAL AND MOTOR SKILLS, vol.108, no.1, pp.129-136, 2009 (SSCI) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 108 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2009
  • Doi Number: 10.2466/pms.108.1.129-136
  • Journal Name: PERCEPTUAL AND MOTOR SKILLS
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.129-136
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

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 (l -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). It was considered that directing visually impaired children to participation sports or recreational activities such as goalball has importance in improving their physical fitness.