Study on the development of spatial orientation and segmental coordination through judo-specific means in children

Authors:

Adriana Neofit1, Dana Bădău2*, Mircea Ion-Ene1, Adela Bădău3

Affiliation:

1Department of Individual Sport and Kinetotherapy, Dunărea de Jos University, Galați, Romania 2Department of Human Movement Sciences, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu Mureș, Romania

3Department of Physical Education, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology, Târgu Mureș, Romania

Abstract

Background. Optimizing sporting performance in children depends on developing psychomotor ability. Spatial orientation and coordination are essential components in judo technique optimization, and that is why their early development is an objec­tive of major importance.

Aims. The purpose of the present study is to identify the level of progress in developing children’s spatial orientation and segmental coordination by applying programs specific of judo.

Methods. This pilot study was conducted in the period September-December 2018 in the Galati Sports Club, and involved a group of 24 male children, aged on average 10.68±0.59 years, practicing judo. The study used 3 assessment tests for spatial orientation and segmental coordination.

Results. Statistical analysis evidenced significant differences in all the 3 tests between the results of the initial and final as­sessment, when p<0.05. The widest gap was recorded in test 3 – Asymmetrical arm movements, i.e. 2.666±.277 points, and the smallest gap in test 1 – Symmetrical arm movements, i.e. .875±.173 points.

Conclusions. 1) All the results of the present research confirmed the hypothesis, i.e. the level of development of spatial orientation and segmental coordination may be improved by practicing certain action means specific to judo for children aged 9-12 years. 2) Data analysis proves that all children reached a superior level in the final stage as compared to the initial stage of the experiment, showing statistically significant progress.

Key words: spatial orientation, segmental coordination, judo, children.

08%20-%20neofit%20%20%20%2018-21Study on the development of spatial orientation and segmental coordination through judo-specific means in children

https://doi.org/10.26659/pm3.2019.20.1.4