THE IMPACT OF KARATE ON BODY POSTURE: A SYNTHESIS OF SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE

Postural disorders in children and adolescents are increasingly common, and physical exercises represent an effective solution for preventing and correcting these deficiencies. The objective of this article is to synthesize existing studies on the influence of karate training on posture, focusing on the correction of postural deviations and the prevention of spinal deformities in children and adolescents. The literature review demonstrates that karate practitioners of all ages show significant improvements in body alignment, a reduction in lumbar lordosis and thoracic kyphosis, and better symmetry at the level of the shoulders and pelvis. While most studies confirm these positive effects, there are methodological limitations andsample size constraints. Therefore, this article highlights the need for further research to fully assess the long-term effects of karate on posture and to establish standardized measurement protocols.