Coordinative Exercise in Preschool Children

Motor-Skill-Enriched Coordinative Exercise in Preschool Children: Effects on Physical Fitness, Motor Competence, and Response Inhibition

This study examined the effects of an 8-week motor-skill-enriched coordinative exercise program on physical fitness, motor competence, and response inhibition in preschool children. Forty-four typically developing children from two pre-existing preschool classes participated. One class completed the exercise program twice per week, with each session lasting 20 minutes, while the other class continued its usual preschool activities. Assessments were conducted before and after the intervention. Physical fitness was evaluated using countermovement jump, change-of-direction, and static and dynamic balance tests; motor competence was assessed using the KTK3+ test battery; and response inhibition was assessed using the Early Years Toolbox Go/No-Go task.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Typically developing preschool children.
• Not receiving regular medication.
• No parent-reported cardiovascular, neurological, orthopedic, or psychiatric condition that could interfere with participation in the assessments or exercise sessions.
• Written informed consent provided by a parent or legal guardian.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed intellectual disability.
• Any health condition preventing safe participation in physical activity.