The relations between certain motor abilities and success in rhythmic gymnastics in the students of different genders

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the relations between the achievement in acquiring the program of rhythmic gymnastics (RG) and the motor abilities important for success in this sport discipline, in the students of different genders. The study included 58 Faculty of Sport and Physical Education students (29 male students and 29 female students, aged 20-21). Balance was measured using the 'Flamingo' balance test; overall coordination was mAeasured using the test of 20 lunges with a stick; coordination in rhythm using the Drumming with legs and arms test; flexibility was measured using the Active straight leg raise test; explosive muscle power of the leg extensors was measured using the Split squat vertical jump test and High jump after a dismount and repetitive muscle power of the leg extensors was measured using the test of a Series of repetitive jumps lasting 15s. The success in RG was operationalized through the expert assessment. To determine the relationship between motor abilities and expert assessment Pearson's correlation analysis was used (Pearson-product moment). The results of this research indicate the conclusion that the motor abilities i.e. flexibility and coordination are significant for successful acquisition of the program contents of RG among the students of the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education.