Effects of Jump Training Program on Static Balance Parameters in Healthy Children

Balance in childhood has a significant impact on proper growth, the development of postural control and the learning of new motor tasks. Since activities such as running and jumping require a stable body position, the aim of this study is to determine the effects of specific plyometric exercises on unilateral balance performance of the take-off leg in children. This research involved 41 children (17 boys and 24 girls) aged from 7 to 11 years old (Mean ± SD, 9.08 ± 1.32). The children had an average height of 137.51 ± 10.28 cm and weight of 32.72 ± 7.76 kg. The study observed variables related to balance ability. During testing, antero-posterior length (AP), medio-lateral length (ML), and overall mean distance (D) of body movement were observed. Repeated measures univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine differences between measurements. Tukey post hoc test was used to further analyse differences of each variable across different time periods. ANOVA results showed significant differences in observed variables (F=5.95; p=0.00; η2=0.51). Significant differences were found for AP between the initial and final measurements (p=0.04). Additionally, there was a difference in AP between the final testing and delayed training effects (p=0.02). Presented results had positive effect, respectively, children maintain better static balance after training program. No differences were found for D and ML variables. These findings suggest that plyometric training could be integrated into regular physical education programs to enhance balance and motor skills in children.