The Effects of Water Exercises and Swimming on Physical Fitness of Children with Mental Retardation

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YILMAZ İ., Ergu N., Konukman F., AĞBUĞA B., ZORBA E., Cimen Z.

JOURNAL OF HUMAN KINETICS, vol.21, pp.105-111, 2009 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 21
  • Publication Date: 2009
  • Doi Number: 10.2478/v10078-09-0013-6
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF HUMAN KINETICS
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.105-111
  • Keywords: mental retardation, physical fitness, water and swimming exercises, RETARDED ADULTS, CARDIOVASCULAR FITNESS, INDIVIDUALS, PATTERNS, STRENGTH
  • Anadolu University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of water exercises and swimming on physical fitness of children with mental retardation. Nine trainable and 7 educable male children (n = 16) were recruited from a rehabilitation center. The mean ages of the groups were 12.22 +/- 0.49 and 14.71 +/- 0.52 years, respectively. Training program was applied for 10-week, two times a week for 40 minute each session. Pre- and post-tests measurements were taken for cardiovascular endurance, muscle endurance, speed, static balance, and agility Results showed that both groups improved significantly (p<0.05) in all dependent variables. Water exercises and swimming appear to be a viable and effective way to improve physical fitness capacity of the children with mental retardation.