Physical activity as the main factor affecting body composition of the visually impaired
Journal Title: Physiotherapy Quarterly - Year 2017, Vol 25, Issue 1
Abstract
Introduction. The aim of the study was to determine how physical activity affected the physical fitness and body composition of the blind and visually impaired. Methods. The study included 28 male students from the Lower Silesia Special Educational Centre No. 13 for the Blind and Visually Impaired in Wroclaw, aged 18–22 years, with disability degree certificates. The subjects were divided into two groups: physically active men (TR, n = 15) and physically inactive men (NTR, n = 13). The researchers assessed the physical activity levels in both groups with the Physical Fitness Testing of the Disabled (project Unique) battery, and the general and segmental body composition using a body composition analyser (BC-418MA). Results. Men engaging in additional forms of physical activity presented significant (p < 0.005) changes in most trials evaluating physical fitness, and there were also significant (p < 0.005) differences in body composition between active male respondents and those not involved in extracurricular exercise. Conclusions. Additional physical activity undertaken by the visually impaired has a positive effect on their physical fitness, namely and primarily on their flexibility, functional strength, speed, arm movement speed, jumping ability, and the strength of the abdominal muscles. Moreover, additional physical activity significantly affects the overall and segmental body composition in the lower limbs and the right upper limb.
Authors and Affiliations
Anita Olszewska, Anna Jackowiak, Agnieszka Chwałczyńska, Krzysztof Sobiech
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP327110
- DOI 10.1515/physio-2017-0002
- Views 54
- Downloads 0
Effectiveness of individualized physical rehabilitation programs on post-mastectomy pain in breast cancer survivors
Introduction. The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of individualized physical rehabilitation programs targeted at reducing post-mastectomy pain in breast cancer survivors. Methods. Overall, 115 women w...
Balance control near the limits of stability in young soccer players
Introduction. To compare postural performance and strategies in young soccer players between quiet standing and standing close to the limits of stability. Methods. The study included sixteen boys aged 13 years, who have...
Investigation of fascial treatment effectiveness on pain, flexibility, functional level, and kinesiophobia in patients with chronic low back pain
Introduction. Fascial manipulations have received attention in the treatment of chronic low back pain (CLBP). The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of fascial manipulation on pain, flexibility, fu...
Physical activity as the main factor affecting body composition of the visually impaired
Introduction. The aim of the study was to determine how physical activity affected the physical fitness and body composition of the blind and visually impaired. Methods. The study included 28 male students from the Lower...
Autobiographical reports in research on people with disabilities
The articles looks at assumptions of research where the central role is played by a source of data (autobiographical report), means of application of descriptive categories (flexibility, sensitization, bridging) and the...