Combined Effects of Calisthenics and Plyometric Exercises to Reduce Risk of Musculoskeletal Injuries Among School-Going Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how combined calisthenics and plyometric exercises affect the risk of musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries in school-aged boys. The study focuses on whether these combined exercises improve functional movements and reduce MSK pain compared to calisthenics or plyometrics alone. The trial includes male children aged 8 to 12 years and aims to provide insights that could help improve physical education programs and child health policies. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: calisthenics, plyometrics, or a combined calisthenics plus plyometrics group. The calisthenics group will perform bodyweight exercises, the plyometrics group will engage in jump training and explosive movements, and the combined group will do both types of exercises. Calisthenics sessions occur three times per week, while plyometric and combined groups participate twice weekly. Each session includes warm-up, exercise periods, and cool-down, designed to be safe and age-appropriate over an 8-week period. Children will undergo functional movement screenings and musculoskeletal pain assessments at the start of the study, at 4 weeks, and at 8 weeks. Researchers will use various tests such as deep squat, hurdle step, incline lunges, shoulder mobility, and others to evaluate functional movement improvements. The study monitors changes in MSK function and pain levels throughout the trial to understand how these exercise interventions impact injury risk and physical function in participating children.

Combined Effects of Calisthenics and Plyometric to Reduce Risk of Musculoskeletal Injuries Among School Going Children