IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

ASSESSING BALANCE AND FLEXIBILITY IN TRIBAL CHILDREN OF KERALA: A PILOT STUDY.

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Deepak J.S ,Dr. D.Harigaran

Abstract

This pilot study aimed to assess balance and flexibility among tribal children in Kerala, India, focusing on participants from three distinct localities: Wayanad, Palakkad, and Thiruvananthapuram. A sample of 90 children aged between 10-14 years was selected from each locality. Balance was measured using the Stork Balance Stand Test, while flexibility was assessed through the Sit and Reach Test. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA to compare means across localities, followed by Scheffe's post hoc test for pairwise comparisons. Results revealed statistically significant differences in both balance and flexibility among the tribal children from the three locations. Specifically, Wayanad generally exhibited superior performance in both balance and flexibility compared to Palakkad and Thiruvananthapuram. These findings underscore the importance of considering regional disparities in physical fitness among tribal children and highlight the need for targeted interventions to promote physical health and well-being in this population.

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