The Impact of Volleyball and Physical Activity on Gait and Posture in School-Age Children
Authors
Junida POGONI, Denis NURIU

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This study explores the impact of volleyball participation and general physical activity on gait and posture development in school-age children. A four-month intervention involving 206 participants aged 8–15 was conducted in five Albanian cities. Children were divided into two matched groups: one engaged in structured volleyball training, while the other followed a non-volleyball physical activity program. Assessments of stride length, symmetry, cadence, and postural stability were conducted pre- and post-intervention. The results showed statistically significant improvements in all parameters, with the volleyball group demonstrating greater gains in stride length (15%), limb symmetry (12%), and postural stability (18%). Pearson correlation analysis confirmed a strong positive relationship between volleyball participation and motor development improvements. These findings highlight the potential of integrating volleyball into school curricula to promote healthy physical development and prevent postural abnormalities in children.
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Authors
Junida POGONI, Denis NURIU

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References:
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