Gross motor coordination in schoolboys of pubertal age contrasting in futsal practice level groups

Abstract

The aim of this study was to verify differences between boys contrasting in futsal practice level groups on gross motor coordination and growth indicators. A sample of 196 boys aged 11 to 14 years was measured for anthropometric variables and Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK). Results revealed that there were no significant associations of the futsal practice level on growth parameters. On the other hand, ANCOVA results (chronological age as a covariate) indicated that boys participating in futsal practice ≥ 2 days/week had significantly better performances in jumping sideways, hoping for height, and total score of KTK than their less practicing counterparts. These findings encourage the most frequent practice of sports for the development of gross motor coordination. Keywords: Motor skills; Adolescent; Maturation; Sport.