Timisoara Physical Education and Rehabilitation Journal Feed

Women’s artistic gymnastics at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games – Between prediction and reality (team and all-around finals)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. The predictability of performance in artistic gymnastics is a topic of interest in sports science research, as competition results are influenced by a complex combination of technical, biomechanical, physiological, and psychological factors. By analyzing the scores obtained on different apparatus, the evolution of results over time, and the level of difficulty of routines, researchers and coaches can identify trends that allow for estimating gymnasts’ performance levels in future competitions.Aim. The aim of this paper is to conduct an analysis comparing our predictions with the actual results achieved by athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, in the Team and All-Around Finals. We also aim to highlight the importance of predictive analysis in major competitions, in order to guide athletes’ training in an efficient and targeted mannerMaterial and method. We analyzed the results achieved by gymnasts in the Team and All-Around Finals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and for each competition (Team Final and All-Around Final), we carried out a comparison between the predictions and the results obtained in the Olympic finals.Results. The analysis of women’s artistic gymnastics competitions highlights the dynamic and unpredictable nature of both the Team and All-Around events. Differences in regulations between qualifications and finals significantly influence the results, with higher scores in qualifications being explained by the possibility of discarding a lower score. Comparing team performances shows that rankings are not consistently maintained across competition stages, emphasizing the importance of tactical adaptation and the management of competitive pressure in the final. The predictions made prior to the competition proved largely valid, confirming the essential role of statistical analysis and forecasting in optimizing performance.

Developing endurance and self-confidence through the integration of Freestyle Wrestling into physical education lessons

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Objective. This study examined the effects of an eight-week freestyle wrestling-based program integrated into physical education lessons on endurance and self-confidence in seventh-grade studentsMethods. 40 students were divided into an experimental group (n=20) and a control group(n=20). Physical endurance was assessed through the Harvard Step Test and Ruffier Test, while self-confidence was evaluated at the end of the intervention using the Coopersmith Self-Esteem InventoryResults. The experimental group showed greater improvements in cardiovascular endurance and adaptation to effort compared with the control group. In addition, the experimental group obtained significantly higher post-intervention self-esteem scores.Conclusions. These findings suggest that freestyle wrestling exercises, when adapted to the physical education classes in school, may be a useful method for developing endurance and supporting self-confidence in physical education.

Videogames at the service of the education of the person-child and movement

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Exergames are an innovative educational resource that addresses children’s passive use of technology and sedentary lifestyles.Methods. This research analyzes their effectiveness as tools to support physical education in schools and children’s overall development, highlighting the various benefits and critical issues identified in the literatureResults. The results demonstrate developments in motor, cognitive, and social skills, with evidence also supporting inclusiveness. Despite some limitations, the review highlights the opportunities exergames offer to promote physical activity, active learning, and integration into lesson planning.

Preliminary psychometric evaluation of a self-reported cognitive functioning questionnaire in high school students

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Cognitive functioning is a critical determinant of academic achievement, particularly during adolescence—a period defined by the maturation of executive functions and attentional control.Material and method. The present study conducts a preliminary psychometric evaluation of a self-report cognitive functioning questionnaire designed for high school students, aimed at optimizing the instrument prior to large-scale implementation. Adopting an exploratory, cross-sectional design, the research sampled $N = 49$ students from grades 9 through 12. The instrument comprised 25 items measured on a 5-point Likert scale, assessing domains including attention, working memory, concentration, and task organization. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, distributional analysis, and internal consistency testing via Cronbach’s alpha (α).Results. Results demonstrate excellent internal consistency for the scale (α = .91) and adequate item-total correlations for the majority of the items. However, specific items were identified for linguistic refinement. The findings validate the instrument’s utility for the primary study following minor adjustments and highlight its relevance for both educational research and clinical practice.

Effects of physical performance improvements on football-tennis technical skills in middle-school students

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an 8-week football-tennis training program, implemented during physical education classes, on physical performance (vertical jump height, 20 m sprint time, change-of-direction time, jump endurance, reactive strength index) and technical skills (service accuracy, total volleys, longest rally, controlled receiving) in untrained rural middle-school boys.Material and method. Twenty-six male students aged 13–15 years completed a pre–post intervention consisting of two football-tennis–based sessions per week within regular PE lessons. Physical performance was assessed using standardized field tests, while technical skills were evaluated through accuracy- and consistency-based football-tennis tasks. Height and body weight were also recorded.Results. Vertical jump height increased from 27.07 to 30.39 cm, 20 m sprint time improved from 3.86 to 3.57 s, and change-of-direction time decreased from 14.67 to 13.82 s. Jump endurance rose from 27.15 to 31.38 repetitions, and reactive strength index increased from 1.46 to 1.71. Technical performance showed selective improvements: total volleys increased from 32.6 to 39.7 and longest rally from 12.3 to 17.5 (both statistically significant). In contrast, service accuracy (70.0% to 69.5%) and controlled receiving (74.8% to 74.3%) did not vary statistically significantly.Conclusions. The training program produced clear gains in explosive strength, sprint speed, agility, jump endurance, and reactive ability, and moderate improvements in volley-related technical performance. However, precision-based skills such as service accuracy and controlled receiving remained statistically unchanged, suggesting that longer or more specialized technical practice may be necessary. These findings support the integration of structured football-tennis training within school physical education programs.

Dynamics of intersegmental coordination in athletes practicing karate and taekwondo

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. The purpose of the current research was to investigate the dynamics of intersegmental coordination, with respect to athletes’ caliber (performance level) and gender.Material and method. Fifty-two athletes practicing karate – 35 athletes (21 men and 14 women) and taekwondo (TKD) – 17 athletes (11 men and 6 women) took part in the study (Mage = 20.8 years). The RCMV test was used to measure athletes’ level of intersegmental coordination. The computerized test, assessing hand-foot coordination, makes it possible to identify key aspects of athletes’ psychomotor organization in various demanding situations.Results. The Kruskal-Wallis (H) test was used, along with the DSCF (Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner) post-hoc test to examine the characteristics of intersegmental coordination in athletes with outstanding (international-level) sports results. Three coefficients of the RCMV test stood out: working memory coefficient (p = 0.003, ε² = 0.23), resistance to disturbing visual factors (p = 0.006, ε² = 0.19), and field inspection (p = 0.030, ε² = 0.13), in tasks requiring intersegmental coordination. Next, Mann-Whitney test (U) was used to investigate the intersegmental coordination of karate and taekwondo practitioners separately, according to gender and athletes’ caliber.Conclusions. Athletes with international performances (Tier 4) demonstrated faster coordinated movements, were able to locate relevant stimuli in the environment more quickly, while their accuracy (in tasks requiring intersegmental coordination) was, also, higher in situations involving visual distractions. Female athletes practicing karate and TKD with international sports performances registered significantly better scores, also, for the overall performance at the RCMV test, compared to female athletes having national (Tier 3) or regional/local (Tier 2) sports results.

Heymans’ cube model of temperament in the case of basketball coaches

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. This study examined whether temperament characteristics differ among basketball coaches according to coaching performance level and gender.Material and method. A total of 54 basketball coaches participated in the study, including 28 medal-winning coaches at National Championships (9 at U14 level and below; 19 at U16 and senior level) and 26 coaches without medals. The sample also included 24 female and 30 male coaches. Temperament was assessed using a 21-item online questionnaire based on the Heymans’ Cube model.Results. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and independent samples t-test. No statistically significant differences were identified between coaching performance groups regarding emotionality, non-emotionality, activity, non-activity, or primary-secondary functioning (p > .05). However, descriptive trends suggested that coaches with higher competitive achievements tended to show lower emotionality, higher activity, and slightly stronger secondary tendencies, reflecting a potentially more reflective and action-oriented temperament profile. Significant gender differences were found for emotionality and non-emotionality. Female coaches scored significantly higher in emotionality (p < .001), indicating greater emotional responsiveness, whereas male coaches scored significantly higher in non-emotionality. No statistically significant gender differences were found for activity, non-activity, or primary-secondary functioning, although male coaches showed slightly higher descriptive activity scores.Conclusions. These findings suggest that gender may represent a more relevant differentiating factor than coaching performance regarding temperament characteristics, particularly emotional responsiveness, with potential implications for coaching behavior, emotional regulation, and decision-making in competitive sport contexts.

The impact of a structured sports activity program on physical fitness and mental health among secondary school students

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. This study examined the effects of a structured sports activity program on physical fitness and mental health among secondary school students.Methods. A quasi-experimental pre-post design was conducted with 120 students divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group followed a 12-week structured sports program (3 sessions/week). Physical fitness was measured using standardized tests, and mental health was assessed using validated psychological scales. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.Results. Cardiorespiratory endurance increased by 23.4%, upper body strength by 31.2%, core strength by 28.7%, and flexibility by 18.6% in the intervention group (p < 0.001). Depression (−42.3%), anxiety (−38.7%), and stress (−35.9%) decreased, while self-esteem (+27.4%) and well-being (+33.8%) improved. The control group showed minimal changes.Conclusion. The structured sports program significantly improved physical fitness and mental health outcomes, supporting its integration into secondary school physical education curricula.

The impact of AI-based fitness applications on perceived stress in university students

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Perceived stress among university students is influenced by lifestyle behaviors and the increasing use of digital health technologies. AI-based fitness applications are widely used to promote healthy habits; however, their effectiveness in reducing stress remains unclear.Objective. This study aimed to examine the relationship between AI-based fitness application use, lifestyle factors, and perceived stress among university students, and to compare the predictive performance of statistical and machine learning models.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 84 students. Data were collected using an online questionnaire assessing perceived stress (PSS-10), physical activity (IPAQ-SF), sleep duration, screen time, nutrition, and AI application usage. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and multiple regression analyses were performed. Machine learning models (Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, and K-Nearest Neighbors) were also applied.Results. Participants reported moderate levels of perceived stress. Correlations between stress and lifestyle variables were weak. The regression model was not statistically significant (R² = 0.09), while machine learning models showed slightly improved performance, with Random Forest explaining 21% of the variance.Conclusions. Perceived stress appears to be weakly associated with lifestyle behaviors and AI application use. The findings suggest that stress is multifactorial and requires more comprehensive and personalized approaches beyond behavioral factors alone.

Monitoring training load and visual-motor adaptation using fitlight feedback in high-intensity interval training (HIIT)

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. This study aimed to investigate the effects of integrating Fitlight visual feedback into high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on training load, reaction performance, and executive cognitive function in healthy young adults. It was hypothesized that Fitlight-enhanced HIIT would improve neuromotor and cognitive outcomes without significantly altering cardiovascular or subjective training loadMaterial and method. Twenty -four physically active participants (12 males, 12 females; aged 19 - 23 years) completed two HIIT sessions in a randomized crossover design: a control session (standard HIIT) and an experimental session (HIIT augmented with Fitlight visual cues) Each session consisted of eight 30-second maximal effort intervals with 30 seconds of rest. Training load was monitored using smartwatch heart rate recordings and Borg CR-10 rate of perceived exertion (RPE). Performance metrics included Fitlight-derived reaction time (RT) and movement time (MT). Cognitive function was assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Go/No-Go test (inhibitory control) and Trail Making Test-B (TMT-B, executive function).Results. Fitlight-enhanced HIIT significantly reduced RT (0.36 to 0.33 s, p = 0.001, d = 0.74) and MT (1.20 to 1.12 s, p = 0.013, d = 0.55), and improved TMT-B completion time (75.5 to 69.9 s, p = 0.048, d = 0.43). No significant differences were observed for Go/No-Go accuracy, heart rate, or RPE.Conclusions. These findings indicate that Fitlight-integrated HIIT enhances neuromotor speed and executive function without increasing physiological load, supporting its utility as a time-efficient training modality in both athletic and cognitive-performance contexts.

Effect of training program using medicine balls on some physical abilities of wheelchair basketball players

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. The researchers seek to identify the effect of physical program using medicine balls on some physical abilities of wheelchair basketball players.Material and method. The sample was selected by the intended manner including 20 players’. Split into two equal groups (experimental 10 players, control 10 players) of national championship in Algeria for the sports season 2022/2023. As protocol experiment, our physical program for the experimental group was applied under researchers’ supervision, All the tests practised (pre-test and pos-ttest) were conducted with the same team and in the same condition based on speed test (20 m), strength test (pushes the medicine ball) and agility test (t-test).Results. After the results treatment statistically, it was clear that using the medicine balls in physical program is positive to the development of level some physical abilities for persons with motor disabilities, and the differences between measurements in pre-test and post-test for the research sample were in favor of the post-test results (*p≤0.05).

Verbal and nonverbal behavior of swimming coaches and the effect on athletes’ perceived performance

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. The aim of the research is to explore the effect of verbal and nonverbal communication of swimming coaches on athletes’ perception of their own immediate evolution. The correlation between swimmers’ performance (expressed by the FINA score) and athletes’ perception regarding their own immediate performance following verbal and nonverbal behavior of coaches was, also, examined.Material and method. Forty-six competitive swimmers, aged between 14 and 31 years old, (32 males and 14 females) took part in the study. A 12 items opinion questionnaire (created by the authors) was used to investigate the immediate effects (on athletes) of coaches’ verbal and nonverbal behavior (nonverbal positive and nonverbal negative feedback, verbal positive and verbal negative feedback from coaches).Results. Pearson correlation revealed significant positive links between swimmers’ performances (FINA score) and their perception regarding their own immediate evolution following verbal and nonverbal feedback from coaches. Swimmers with higher FINA scores feel that positive verbal and nonverbal feedback from coaches helps them more, compared to athletes with a lower FINA score. Next, using the independent samples t-test, gender-related and age-related differences were examined, in terms of swimmers’ perception of their own immediate evolution/performance following coaches’ communication style.Conclusions. Female athletes and seniors (regardless of gender) reported that their immediate performance will be more affected by both verbal and nonverbal negative feedback from coaches. Moreover, seniors feel greater receptivity to positive feedback, especially verbal (compared to juniors).

Women’s artistic gymnastics at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games – between prediction and reality (apparatus finals)

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. Performance prediction can support or influence tactical and strategic preparation. Although artistic gymnastics is considered a sport discipline with high demands across all components of preparation, the tactical approach to a competition can, at times, become the key factor that determines the outcome and can make the difference in achieving a top podium position. The aim of this study is to conduct an analysis comparing our predictions with the actual results obtained by the athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. We also seek to highlight the importance of predictive analysis in major competitions as a means to guide athlete preparation in an efficient mannerMaterial and method. We analyzed the results achieved by the gymnasts in the apparatus finals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. For each apparatus, we conducted a comparison between the prediction made in the aforementioned article and the results obtained in the Olympic finals.Results. When predicting results and future performances, we must take into account the uniqueness of each competition, its atmosphere and stakes, as well as the psychological balance that a gymnast must maintain. Although we attempted to formulate predictions by analyzing all continental competitions earlier in the Olympic year, we found that many gymnasts did not participate in these events, as they were not a priority for them. Their strategy was one of discreet preparation, entering directly into the Olympic Games. For this reason, in the future, when developing performance predictions, we will aim to focus on national competitions of countries with strong individual gymnasts.

Sports injuries in school settings: a descriptive analysis and a preventive-rehabilitation framework for middle school students

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. This study analyzed the prevalence and causes of sports injuries among middle school students and evaluated the effectiveness of a preventive-rehabilitation program.Material and method. A descriptive-analytical design was applied to 120 students using questionnaires and observations. Data were analyzed using descriptive and correlational statistics.Results. Ankle sprains (23.3%), finger injuries (18.3%), and hamstring strains (14.2%) were the most frequent. Students in the program showed fewer injuries (X̄= 1.04 vs. 1.73), greater preventive awareness (8.2 vs. 5.1), and better motor performance (16.7 vs. 13.8). Significant correlations were found between program participation and awareness (r = 0.72, p < 0.01).Conclusions. The framework reduced injury rates and improved awareness, supporting its inclusion in school physical education.

Study on the bio-motor condition of the institutionalized elderly from Brașov

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Aging is a natural but complex process that involves significant physiological and psychological changes. These changes can affect the health of older people, especially in residential care settings, where access to care and support can vary considerably. Physical exercise, a crucial factor in maintaining optimal health, has been shown to have beneficial effects on older people, reducing the risks associated with chronic conditions, improving mobility and supporting mental health.Material and method. The study focuses on the impact of physical exercise on the health of institutionalized older people in Brașov County, highlighting the importance of a physical activity program adapted to their specific needsResults. Recent research suggests that through regular physical exercise interventions, significant improvements can be observed in the quality of life, autonomy and general health of older people. These activities can contribute to a more active and independent life, combat the negative effects of inactivity and prevent the exacerbation of some age-related health conditionsConclusions. In conclusion, the implementation of personalized physical exercise programs in residential centers in Brașov County could represent an effective solution for improving the health status of institutionalized elderly people.

The pedagogical relationship between music, movement and autism: a systematic review

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. The pedagogical relationship between music and movement is now well established as schools are moving toward creating activities that use these two forms of non-verbal language to build the harmonious development of learners. The combined action of music and movement activates multiple brain areas that are often underactive in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)Material and method. To this end, research is heading towards the strong correlation between music and language to stimulate learning new skills, assisted by the movement to develop coordination, awareness, proprioception, and fine motor skills. The multisystemic approach promotes social inclusion through shared experiences at the basis of the concept of “making music”: no competition, but collaboration and interaction between group members leads to shared outcomes. There are many methods of intervention, including Musicocentred Improvisational Music Therapy, Nordoff Robbins Scales (NR),Results. Music Education with Psychomotor Enfoque, Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS®), and ludo-musical activities, which demonstrate how the value of integrating music and movement in pedagogical contexts for ASDs acts to bring benefits in various areas, including communication and socialisation, Motor development, Behavioural and sensorimotor regulation, Cognitive development, involvement and affectivityConclusions: In summary, the combination of music and movement is a frontier with a great deal of educational potential and offers the opportunity to create a life-enhancing project for people with ASD.

Study of the relationship between a recreational sports program and an educational nutritional program accompanied by changes in body fat percentage among schooled adolescents (15-18 Years)

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. The study aims to examine the effectiveness of a recreational sports program coupled with nutritional education on the body fat percentage (BFP) among adolescent students.Material and method. The research was conducted on a sample of 16 male adolescents, aged between 15 and 18 years, enrolled at Hadi Mahmoud High School in Tamalouka District, Guelma Province. The researcher utilized an experimental method with a single-group design, employing a questionnaire developed by MARTIN in 2000 to assess the level of physical activity. A proposed recreational sports program was implemented over a duration of 10 weeks, with three sessions per week, accompanied by an educational program consisting of eight theoretical lessons.Results. The post-intervention results revealed a significant improvement in the level of physical activity, evidenced by the absence of any individuals with physical inactivity. The findings showed that 10 individuals, representing 62.5% of the sample, had a low level of physical activity, while six individuals, representing 37.5% of the sample, exhibited a moderate level of physical activity. No individuals were recorded with a high level of physical activity. Regarding the measurement of body fat percentage, a noticeable improvement was observed compared to the baseline results, with five individuals, representing 31.25% of the sample, having a high body fat percentage and 11 individuals, representing 68.75%, having a very high body fat percentage. The mean body fat percentage among the sample was recorded at 25.77%, with the lowest value noted at 20.3% and the highest at 30%. The post-intervention results also indicated that the Sig values were less than the significance level of 0.05, suggesting a statistically significant relationship between the level of physical activity and body fat percentage (BFP).

The impact of knee joint injuries on soccer players

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Aim. This study aimed to identify the physiological effects of knee injuries among football players, investigate their impact on physical performance, and provide evidence-based recommendations for rehabilitation and treatment protocols. The research sought to establish a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted consequences of knee injuries, examining both immediate physiological responses and long-term performance implications.Material and method. A descriptive-analytical methodology was employed involving 27 football players from a First Regional League club. Data collection utilized literature review, specialist interviews, and a structured 12-question questionnaire addressing injury severity, anatomical distribution, causation, treatment modalities, and performance outcomes. Statistical analysis employed percentage calculations for frequency distributions across injury categories.Results. Moderate and severe injuries dominated (70.36% combined), with muscular injuries comprising 44.44% of cases. Violent contact represented the primary injury mechanism (51.86%), while competitive environments generated 70.37% of injuries. Over half (51.86%) of injuries resulted in training cessation exceeding six months. Treatment approaches included physical therapy (37.03%) and surgical intervention (32.34%), though 66.67% of players lacked formal rehabilitation programs. Injury recurrence occurred in 55.55% of cases, with 40.74% reporting poor post-injury performance outcomes.Conclusions. Training cessation due to knee injury resulted in significant physiological deterioration: 10% decrease in maximal aerobic capacity, 5% reduction in maximal heart rate, 12% decline in oxygen pulse, and 20% decrease in ventilatory threshold. Body fat percentage increased by 6%, negatively impacting weight-bearing activities. The hamstring-to-quadriceps strength ratio decreased significantly, increasing re-injury susceptibility. High injury recurrence rates and poor performance outcomes highlighted critical deficiencies in current rehabilitation practices, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive injury prevention strategies and evidence-based rehabilitation protocols in football.

The long path of us Soccer: From isolation to attraction

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. Over the last 30 years, North American soccer has steadily progressed, reaching levels that even the most hopeful supporters could not have dreamed. In 1996, Major League Soccer had ten registered teams; today, there are 28 teams, each with their own sports complex dedicated solely to the practice of this activity. Years of quick growth were marked by less creative decisions that were easily rejected, as well as reformist moves that “pushed” soccer in the United States to greatness.Material and method. The stereotype of the “retired league” has been lifted, and with the addition of major international talents, the MLS has become a tremendously appealing league for any professional soccer player. Of course, we cannot currently compare this league to the well-known Premier League or La Liga, but reputations are built over time, and involvement can help you accomplish this goal.Results. Romanians were initially skeptical of the MLS, but this view has shifted mostly as a result of increased competitiveness and commercial appeal, as well as huge expenditures from several world-renowned sponsors.Conclusions. If the great Romanian players of the “Golden Generation” rejected MLS approaches, the younger generation is very interested in the North American sports competition. The next paragraphs will explain how this paradigm shift occurred.

Evaluation of the effectiveness of applying movement games for the development of motor skills in children aged 7-12 years

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction. As children grow, motor performance develops. Motor performance skills enable children to process information efficiently when managing specific tasks. Although children develop motor skills through various physical activities, this can be more easily achieved when they engage in voluntary activities aligned with their interests. Movement games provide children with the opportunity to play with minimal rules and without constraintsAim. The current study aims to explore the effectiveness of a movement games intervention program in improving the motor performance components related to the motor skills of young school-aged children.Material and method. The research involved administering a structured questionnaire to physical education teachers, focusing on the evaluation of children’s motor skills through movement games. The data collection occurred over two months, followed by result processing and interpretation.Results. In early school-age children, the pace of physical development is much slower than in earlier stages. In terms of height and weight, there is significant interindividual variability. We can state that there are no significant differences between boys and girls until the “growth spurt,” which occurs towards the end of early school age—around age 10 for girls and around age 12 for boys.Conclusions. Children’s interest in sports has decreased, and physical education classes are insufficient to meet all objectives. Programs based on movement games can increase participation in physical activity, help prevent obesity, and should be complemented by organized sports outside school.