Physical activity and functional shortening of the muscles of the lower limbs in pupils aged between 14-16

Abstract

AbstractAim of the study: The aim of this study was to evaluate how sports activity influences the extent and incidence of muscle shortening in lower limbs in physically active and inactive young women. Material and methods: A group of 30 pupils aged between 14-16 was tested. Fifteen pupils out of the group regularly played volleyball in TRS Siła Ustroń sports club, while the remaining fifteen were physically inactive. The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) system was used to assess the level of motor ability, and four functional tests were used to measure the length of lower limbs muscles based on the use of V-Rippstein plurimeter. In addition to tests the students also filled out a questionnaire. Results: The results of the analysis showed that among the physically inactive pupils the muscle shortening occurred more frequently in comparison to the students who played volleyball. Moreover, the results of the FMS indicated that the young women who took up sports had a higher level of motor ability than their peers. Conclusions: Regular physical activity improves and maintains normal length of muscles of lower limbs.