Effects of eight weeks of perceptual motor training on perceptual motor performance and neuromuscular coordination in children aged 8-10 years

Background: The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of eight weeks of perceptual motor training on perceptual motor performance and neuromuscular coordination in 8-10 years old children. The research was conducted through a quasiexperimental method. The study population included elementary school students from two northern and southern parts of the city of Kermanshah who were studying in the school year 2012-2013. Materials and methods: The study sample included 320 children who were randomly assigned to two active (experimental) and non-active (control) groups. First, all participants underwent a pre-test. Then, the active group had practiced perceptual motor exercises for eight weeks (24 sessions); after the mentioned period, the post-test was conducted for both groups. Perceptual motor performance and neuromuscular coordination were assessed through Lincoln Oseretsky test. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. In order to determine the mean difference between active and non-active groups, independent T test was used and to determine differences between pre-test and posttest in two groups dependent T test was used. Results and discussions: The results showed an increase in perceptual motor performance and neuromuscular coordination in active group compared with those of non-active group. In addition, there was no significant difference between the sexes of children. It can be inferred from the findings that perceptual motor training improves perceptual motor performance and neuromuscular coordination of children. The perceptual motor activities play an important role in the development of motor capabilities of children. Conclusion: Since living in the future world requires human beings with high perceptual motor capabilities, it is necessary for education and training systems of a society to educate and train such a capable generation. Thus it is recommended to implement such programs at primary schools.

Keywords:

Perceptual motor training , perceptual motor performance , neuromuscular coordination , Lincoln oseretsky test