The effect of karate training on changes in physical fitness in school-age children with normal and abnormal body weight

Abstract

Introduction. Physical activity is one of the best methods to prevent civilization diseases in modern times. Studies confirm that the appropriate dose reduces the risk of hypertension, heart diseases, cancer, depression, or overweight and obesity. Methods. The aim of the study was to assess the changes in individual physical fitness tests among children in early school age participating in karate training. A total of 59 children attending primary school were examined. Selected Eurofit tests were carried out before and after 10 weeks of karate training. Results and conclusions. Karate training induced positive changes in the fitness of the studied children. Higher improvements were observed among children with normal body mass as compared with the overweight or obese ones.