Analysis of Physical Fitness Norms of Students Aged 10-15 With Learning Disabilities Using Euro fit Tests (Erzurum City Sample)

Abstract

The objective of this study is to research the physical fitness norms of female and male students aged 7-15 with learning difficulties in Erzurum using Euro fit tests. The research was conducted on the students studying in private education and vocational schools in Erzurum. The research population consisted of 26 students randomly selected among 80 students studying at schools. Students were aged 10-15. These students were subjected to height and weight, flamingo balance, plate tapping, sit-and-reach, standing broad jump, handgrip, sit-ups in 30 seconds, bent arm hang and 10x5 meter shuttle run tests. After the first measurements were performed on the students as preliminary tests, they were subjected to a 4-month (16 weeks) specially designed exercise training program. Exercises were performed for 50-60 minutes twice a week. At the end of program, the last test measurements were taken and their improvements were compared. SPSS 16.00 packaged software was used for the statistical analysis of the data obtained from the research. Minimum and maximum values of children, their arithmetic mean and standard deviation and Z-scores were evaluated as a statistical method. As a result of the research, a significant improvement was detected in flamingo balance test, sit-and-reach, standing broad jump, handgrip, bent arm hang test results of the students. No significant improvement was observed in plate tapping, sit-ups in 30 seconds and 10x5 meter shuttle run tests. In conclusion, it was found out that regular physical exercise positively contributed in the physical features in students with learning disabilities.
Keywords: learning disability; disabled; Euro Fit Tests; fitness;