Enhancing Motor Fitness in Children Through Corrective Gymnastics in Physical Education
Journal of School Health / The Journal of School Health
Published online on April 07, 2026
Abstract
["Journal of School Health, Volume 96, Issue 5, May 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\n\nBackground\nCorrective gymnastics (CG) is widely recognized for its effectiveness in preventing and treating postural deficiencies; however, its impact on motor fitness in school‐aged children is less studied. This research evaluated the effects of a school‐based CG program on strength, agility, coordination, speed of movement, and flexibility in 10‐year‐old children.\n\nMethods\nA total of 255 students (age: 9.67 ± 0.46 years; 195 girls) from three elementary schools were assigned to an experimental group (EXP, N = 94) or a control group (CON, N = 161). The EXP group followed a 4‐month CG program during regular physical education (PE) classes, targeting five common postural disorders. The CON group followed the standard PE curriculum. Motor fitness was assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention using standardized tests.\n\nResults\nBoth groups improved significantly in all motor domains (p < 0.01), but the EXP group showed significantly greater gains in plate tapping, long jump, sit‐ups, and shuttle run performance (F = 7.718–30.983, p < 0.01).\n\nImplications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity\nThese findings highlight the added value of CG in enhancing motor fitness during a critical developmental period. Integrating CG into regular PE could promote equitable access to both preventive care and functional physical development across school populations.\n\nConclusion\nCG represents a valuable addition to PE, supporting motor development and postural health in children.\n"]