Relationship Between Using a Balance Bike and the Improvement in Balance Among Children

Abstract

0-6 years old are commonly categorized as ‘the golden age period for kids. ’ During this time, development of the cognitive, motoric, sensory, language, and socio-emotional functions can be cultivated easily. The improvement of motoric skills is influenced by education and game. A balance bike is a fun game and sport that promotes rough motoric skills and improves posture stability. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between balance bikes and the improvement in balance among children. We used a cross-sectional study design. 30 healthy children who have at least 4 weeks of experience using a balance bike, with no health issues and no disability in the lower extremity were recruited as study participants. We utilized the Y balance test to assess whether the dynamic balance among children is good or poor. As a result, 37% of participants played balance bike within 1 year, while 63% within 2 years. A total of 13% of participants had a very good balance, 80% had a good balance, and 7% had a moderate balance. Furthermore, balance bike use is significantly correlated to balance improvement among children (P<0.000). We concluded from our finding that balance can be improved through functional activities, including games considering the participants are children.
 Keywords: balance bike, balance, children