Effects of Calisthenic exercises on physical fitness among school going children: a randomized control trial

Background: With the rising trend of sedentary behaviour and decreased physical activity among school-aged children, there is a growing concern regarding their physical health and fitness. Calisthenic exercises, bodyweight-based movements, offer a cost-effective and accessible method to improve multiple components of physical fitness without the need for equipment. Objective: To evaluate the effects of structured Calisthenic exercise program on physical fitness among school-going children. Material and Methods: This two-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted over 10 months at a private school in Sargodha, Pakistan. Forty-eight male children were randomly allocated into two groups: Group A (intervention group) performed structured Calisthenic exercises thrice weekly for 8 weeks, while Group B (control group) continued routine school activities. Physical fitness was assessed using the Eurofit Physical Fitness Test Battery at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Repeated measures ANOVA and independent t-tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: Significant within- and between-group improvements were observed in the intervention group across multiple fitness parameters including balance (Flamingo Balance Test, p<0.001), coordination (Plate Tapping Test, p<0.001), leg power (Standing Broad Jump, p<0.001), flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test, p=0.03), muscular endurance (Sit-ups in 30 seconds and Bent Arm Hang, p<0.001), and aerobic capacity (20m Shuttle Run, p=0.042). Hand grip strength showed significant improvement in the intervention group over time (p=0.002), though not in comparison between groups. The control group showed minimal or no significant improvements. Conclusion: Structured Calisthenic exercises significantly enhance physical fitness components including balance, flexibility, coordination, endurance, and strength in school-aged boys. Incorporating such programs into school routines offers a practical and scalable strategy to combat physical inactivity in children. Keywords: Balance; endurance; exercise therapy; flexibility; motor skills; physical fitness Clinical trial #: NCT05149794