Physical fitness levels of blind and visually impaired goalball team players

Colak T., Bamac B., Aydın M., Meric B., Ozbek A.

ISOKINETICS AND EXERCISE SCIENCE, vol.12, pp.247-252, 2004 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 12
  • Publication Date: 2004
  • Doi Number: 10.3233/ies-2004-0182
  • Journal Name: ISOKINETICS AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.247-252
  • Keywords: goalball, physical fitness, CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS, SPORT
  • Kocaeli University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The purpose of this study to verify the effect of playing goalball on some measures of motor fitness. One hundred and three children (age 13-15 years) with varying degrees of blindness were assessed for motor fitness. All participants were male. The participants underwent motor fitness (balance, handgrip, flexibility, vertical jump, isokinetic concentric peak torque) assessments. There were significant differences between goalball players and non-goalball players regarding many motor fitness components. Non-goalball players were inferior in all motor fitness compared with goalball players. This study suggests that goalball may be considered effective option to improve motor skills in visually impaired children.