A LONGITUDINAL STUDY OF THE EFFECTS OF REGULAR SWIMMING EXERCISE ON HEALTH-RELATED PHYSICAL FITNESS IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Physical activity is very important for children. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of long term regular swimming exercises on comprehensive health-related fitness in children. Twenty healthy children aged 6-7 years were recruited, 10 of which participated 18- month swimming program. Their cardiorespiratory fitness, body fat, flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance were measured at the beginning, and after 6, 12, and 18 months of the swimming program. The results showed that regular swimming exercise significantly improved peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak,), back strength, and kept lower body fat. However, flexibility, grip strength, and leg strength did not show significant changes.