Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Children Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Special Issue "Childhood Physical Activity and Health"

Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Published Papers

A special issue of Children (ISSN 2227-9067). This special issue belongs to the section "Global and Public Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2023 | Viewed by 11762

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Fatma Neşe Şahin

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Coaching Education, Faculty of Sport Science, Ankara University, Ankara 06830, Türkiye
Interests: sport sciences; motor skill development; physical activity

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are editing a Special Issue for the journal Children focusing on the role of physical activity and health in childhood to advance the state of knowledge through a collection of articles. It is a well-established fact that physical activity plays a crucial role in supporting and promoting children’s physical, mental, and social health. Therefore, physical activity and health are considered two major concepts to address in the child population. It is well known that in recent years, the sedentary lifestyle of children has increased due to technological advancements and the COVID-19 Pandemic. A sedentary lifestyle can threaten the motor skill development and health of children in the future. By contrast, different physical activities can have positive effects on children's health. Physical activity can increase the physical fitness levels of children, plays an important role in biomotor development, and also reflects positively on school performance. Thus, physical activity practices are an excellent tool for promoting health. However, more research and data are needed to determine the right exercises for children to be healthier. This Special Issue aims to provide new insights into the effects and health benefits of physical exercise in children. For these purposes, we welcome you to submit different types of articles, primarily original research articles.

Dr. Fatma Neşe Şahin
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Children is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

childhood
physical activity (physical exercise)
movement training
children’s health
motor skills

Published Papers (9 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

12 pages, 274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Body Mass Index, Physical Activity, Cardiorespiratory Endurance and Quality of Life among Children with Physical Disabilities

Nimale Supramaniam

Asfarina Zanudin

and

Nor Azura Azmi

Children 2023, 10(9), 1465; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10091465 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 514

Abstract

Background: Children with physical disabilities (PD) have reduced levels of physical activity (PA) compared to typically developing children, which increases their risk of becoming overweight and obese, which leads to numerous adverse health consequences. This study aimed to determine the differences between groups classified by body mass index (BMI) percentile in terms of PA levels, cardiorespiratory endurance and quality of life (QoL), and also to evaluate the relationship between BMI percentile and PA levels, cardiorespiratory endurance and QoL in children and adolescents with physical disabilities. Methods: A total of 172 children and adolescents with PD aged between 5 and 17 years from Hospital Tunku Azizah were included in this cross-sectional study. The BMI percentile was calculated to determine the weight status. PA levels were assessed with the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Older Children (PAQ-C), cardiorespiratory endurance was measured by the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and QoL was measured by the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory version 2.0 (PedsQL 2.0). Results: According to the BMI percentile, 70.3% had a healthy BMI percentile (50th to 84th percentile), 11.6% were overweight (50th to 84th percentile), 11% were underweight (0–49th percentile) and 7.0% were obese (95th percentile and above). Most children reported a healthy weight, and the rates of being overweight and obese were higher in children who could ambulate without aids (6.4% and 3.5%, respectively) compared to those who used walking aids (5.2% and 3.5%, respectively). Significant differences were found in the PAQ-C, 6MWT and PedsQL 2.0 scores between different BMI percentile groups (p < 0.05). There were also significant correlations between the BMI percentile and the PAQ-C (r = 0.209, p < 0.001), 6MWT (r = 0.217, p < 0.001) and PedsQL 2.0 (r = 0.189, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The rate of being overweight and obese is greater among children who ambulate without aids than among those with aids. An increase in the BMI percentile can reduce the QoL in different ways. This study suggests that children with PD who can walk without aids are at a greater risk of being overweight and obese. Hence, the engagement of this population in PA is crucial for their weight management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

10 pages, 894 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Chronotype and Physical Behaviours in Adolescent Girls

Deirdre M. Harrington

and

Charlotte L. Edwardson

Children 2023, 10(5), 819; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10050819 - 30 Apr 2023

Viewed by 804

Abstract

The aim of this study was to (1) describe accelerometer-assessed physical behaviours by chronotype, and (2) examine the association between chronotype and accelerometer-assessed physical behaviours in a cohort of adolescent girls. Chronotype (single question) and physical behaviours (GENEActiv accelerometer on the non-dominant wrist) were assessed in 965 adolescent girls (13.9 ± 0.8 years). Linear mixed-effects models examined the relationships among chronotype and physical behaviours (time in bed, total sleep time, sleep efficiency, sedentary time, overall, light and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity) on weekdays and weekend days. Over the 24 h day, participants spent 46% sedentary, 20% in light activity, 3% in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and 31% in ‘time in bed’. Seventy percent of participants identified as ‘evening’ chronotypes. Compared to evening chronotypes, morning chronotypes engaged in less sedentary time (10 min/day) and had higher overall physical activity (1.3 mg/day, ~30 min of slow walking) on weekdays. Most girls identified as evening chronotypes with a large proportion of their day spent sedentary and a small amount in physical activities which may be exacerbated in evening chronotypes on weekdays. The results maybe be important for programmes aiming to promote physical activity in adolescent girls. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 940 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Fine Motor Coordination, Selective Attention and Reaction Time in Children: Effect of Combined Accuracy Exercises and Visual Art Activities

Mohamed Frikha

and

Raghad Saad Alharbi

Children 2023, 10(5), 786; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10050786 - 27 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1350

Abstract

Optimizing fine motor coordination and cognitive abilities in middle childhood through new intervention programs remains one of the most essential orientations in motor development and skills proficiency. The present study aims to identify the effect of a structure-based program intervention, combining motor accuracy exercises with visual art activities (ceramics, pottery, and creations using raw materials), on fine motor coordination, selective attention, and reaction time in middle childhood. Sixty, right-handed typically developed male schoolchildren (age = 8.29 ± 0.74 years; body height = 130.25 ± 0.05 cm and body mass = 29.83 ± 4.68 kg; mean ± SD) volunteered to participate in the study. They were randomly assigned to a combined group intervention (MG) receiving a mixed program integrating visual art activities and motor accuracy exercises; an accuracy group intervention (AG) receiving oriented motor accuracy exercises; and a control group (CG). Selective attention, reaction time, and fine motor coordination skills (accuracy: darts throw; manual dexterity: grooved pegboard test) were measured. Repeated measure ANOVA, one-way ANOVA, and Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA were performed for analysis. The results showed higher changes in MG compared to AG in manual dexterity (p < 0.001), in motor accuracy (p < 0.001), and in reaction time (p < 0.01), but not in selective attention (p = 0.379). In addition, higher changes were recorded in AG compared to CG in motor accuracy (p < 0.05), reaction time (p < 0.05), and in selective attention (p < 0.01), but not in manual dexterity (p = 0.082). The structured combined program best assists accuracy, manual dexterity, reaction time, and selective attention. Therefore, instructors in sports academies and teachers at schools are advised to use the combined program in the training sessions and in the non-curricular activities, respectively, to improve fine motor coordination, selective attention, and reaction time in middle childhood. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 1096 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Tennis Training Improve Attention? New Approach

and

Children 2023, 10(4), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10040728 - 14 Apr 2023

Viewed by 730

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effect of a tennis training program on improving attention. Methods: A total of 40 tennis players from a Tennis Club, 20 in the experimental group (EG) and 20 in the control group (CG), participated in the study. The EG athletes received 40 serve balls from the trainer twice a week for nine weeks. The researcher applied the “d2 attention test” to the EG and CG before and after the nine-week period. Results: After comparing the pretest and posttest attention averages of the experimental group, there was a significant difference in the TN, TN-E, and CP mean scores (p < 0.001). In the comparison of the pretest and posttest attention averages of the CG, there was no significant difference in the TN, TN-E, and CP mean scores (p > 0.05). The comparison of the pretest attention averages of the EG and CG revealed no significant difference in the TN, TN-E, and CP mean scores (p > 0.05). The comparison of the posttest attention averages of the EG and CG revealed a significant difference in the mean scores of TN, TN-E, and CP (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between the posttest–pretest differences in the TN, TN-E, and CP values of the EG and CG (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The study concluded that tennis training aimed at developing attention improved the results in the attention test. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 2218 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

School-Based Circuit Training Intervention Improves Local Muscular Endurance in Primary School Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

and

Children 2023, 10(4), 726; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10040726 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1560

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of a 12-week circuit training program in improving local muscular endurance in normal-weighted primary school students. Methods: The study involved a parallel-group randomized trial with 606 primary school boys assigned to an experimental or a control group. The participants underwent a 12-week circuit training program that involved multi-joint, total-body workouts using body weight, resistance bands, and medicine ball exercises. The study measured the participants’ local muscular endurance during sit-ups, dynamic trunk extensions on a Roman bench (DTE), and push-ups. Results: After adjusting for the baseline, the treatment–grade interaction was significant for sit-ups (F = 7.74, p < 0.001, η_p² = 0.04), DTE (F = 6.49, p < 0.001, η_p² = 0.03), and push-ups (F = 9.22, p < 0.001, η_p² = 0.05), where the experimental treatment was more beneficial than the control. The treatment effect seemed to vary depending on the individual’s baseline local muscle endurance capacity. As the baseline local muscular endurance values increased, the treatment and grade effects became less beneficial. Conclusion: A 12-week circuit training program involving body weight, resistance bands, and medicine ball exercises suits school-based programs and can improve local muscular endurance in normal-weighted primary school boys. The experimental treatment was more effective than the control, and the individual baseline muscular endurance should be considered when designing training programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 275 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Performance and Morphological Characteristics of Young Basketball Players before and after COVID-19

Vladan Pelemiš

Dajana Zoretić

and

Ivan Prskalo

Children 2023, 10(3), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10030493 - 02 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1164

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine possible changes in physical performance and morphological characteristics in young basketball players before and after quarantine caused by COVID-19. The research was conducted on a total sample of 46 young basketball players. Participants were measured before the quarantine and pandemic in January 2020 and then after the quarantine period, one year later in March 2021. The results indicate the existence of significant differences in total muscle mass (p < 0.01) in favor of higher values measured before quarantine. Moreover, total fat percentage was higher (p < 0.03) after quarantine. As for physical performance, significant differences were also observed in the counter movement jump test (p < 0.05) and the 20 m shuttle run test (p < 0.05), with significantly poorer results for the group of participants measured after quarantine. The authors conclude that the consequences of the quarantine and pandemic of the SARS-CoV-2 virus were definitely negative, as higher values of body fat and lower values of the percentage of total muscle mass were observed. In addition, a lower level of the explosive power of lower limbs was observed, accompanied by lower aerobic endurance in young basketball players. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

12 pages, 1075 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations between Force-Time Related Single-Leg Counter Movement Jump Variables, Agility, and Linear Sprint in Competitive Youth Male Basketball Players

and

Children 2023, 10(3), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10030427 - 22 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1691

Abstract

Background: Previous research has reported a strong relationship between vertical jumping, sprinting, and agility, as a reflection of lower-limb power. Unilateral analysis of this relationship has not yet been explored. This study primarily investigated the associations between single-leg countermovement jump (CMJ), sprint, and agility performances in youth basketball players. Methods: Thirty-five male basketball players from the youth category (age 15.06 ± 2.62 years, n = 32 right-limb dominant; n = 3 left-limb dominant) performed single-leg CMJ, 20 m sprint, and T-drill agility tests over two sessions. Force–time-related performance variables were measured using a single-leg CMJ test on a Kistler force plate. Results: Significant moderate to large negative correlations were observed between single-leg CMJ variables, 20 m sprint, and T-drill agility, except for mean force for both dominant and non-dominant leg measures (r = −0.384 to −0.705). Mean power and mean force were correlated with the physical characteristics of the athletes for both legs (r = −0.389 to −0.843). Flight time and jump height were identified as the best predictor variables for both sprint and agility time in the stepwise model (R² = 0.608 to 0.660). No statistical inter-limb differences were found during the single-leg CMJ test (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The study findings suggest that youth basketball players with greater single-leg jump output most likely have better sprint and agility performances. Thus, trainers and athletic performance coaches may include unilateral limb exercises in their training programs to enhance lower-limb explosive performance and reduce limb asymmetries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Review

Jump to: Research

16 pages, 649 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sports Games and Motor Skills in Children, Adolescents and Youth with Intellectual Disabilities

and

Children 2023, 10(6), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10060912 - 23 May 2023

Viewed by 1059

Abstract

(1) Background: Sports games are one of the best ways of engaging in physical activity for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) and Down syndrome (DS). This systematic review of the current literature aims to identify and sum relevant data on motor skills and clarify whether there are positive effects of sports programs in motor skills games in children, adolescents, and youth with ID and DS. (2) Methods: The systematic review of the papers was carried out following the methodological guidelines and by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) consensus. The following electronic databases were researched: PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and ERIC from 2001 to 2023. (3) Results: The basketball test battery can be used to improve and monitor basketball training. Basketball players with lower levels of ID achieved better results, especially those with disabilities of the II and III degrees. Futsal has a positive impact on the coordination, and the differences between the test results of the vertical jump with and without an arm swing, that can be seen indirectly as a coordination factor, were statistically significant. (4) Conclusions: Basketball is recommended as an effective and practical rehabilitation program for children, adolescents, and youth with ID and DS. Futsal is an interesting and helpful activity for individuals with ID as well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2800 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Taekwondo Training on Growth Factors in Normal Korean Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

and

Children 2023, 10(2), 326; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10020326 - 08 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1408

Abstract

The growth of children and adolescents is both an important health indicator and a major public health issue. Many recent studies have investigated the effects of taekwondo on growth factors, but no consensus has yet been reached. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the effects of taekwondo on the growth factors in children and adolescents (aged 8 to 16 years). Randomized controlled trials from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, the Research Information Sharing Service, the Korea Citation Index, and the Korean-studies Information Service System were analyzed. The effect sizes (standardized mean differences, SMD) were calculated, the risk of bias and publication bias were assessed, and the effect size and subgroup analyses were pooled. We found that the taekwondo group had significantly higher levels of growth hormones (SMD 1.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98–2.58, and p < 0.001) and insulin-like growth factors (SMD 1.76, 95% CI 0.60–2.92, and p < 0.001) than the control group. For height, a medium effect size was observed (SMD 0.62, 95% CI −0.56–1.80, and p = 0.300), but the between-group difference was not significant. Thus, taekwondo had significant positive effects on the secretion of growth hormones and insulin-like growth factors in Korean children and adolescents. A longitudinal follow-up is necessary to determine the effect on height. This suggests that taekwondo can be recommended as an appropriate physical exercise for maintaining normal growth in children and adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Childhood Physical Activity and Health)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Special Issue "Childhood Physical Activity and Health"

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (9 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI