Investigation of muscle morphometric properties, muscle strength, anthropometry, dynamic balance, temporal performance and emotional status in children who perform capoeira

In capoeira, which is becoming widespread as a martial art in the world, lower extremity mobility and upper extremity stability are prominent. In addition to including physical components, it is also effective on emotional status because it includes cognitive parameters such as dance, acrobatics and music. One of the unique aspects of capoeira is that practitioners can play musical instruments specific to capoeira. Based on these features, the muscle structure and strength, balance, aerobic capacity and emotional status of capoeira players may differ from healthy children who do not participate in a physical activity program. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of capoeira on muscle morphometry, body anthropometry, dynamic balance, timed performance and emotional state in children. The study was conducted prospectivelywith 9 children aged 8-12 years (mean age=9.67±1.30 years) registered at Trabzon Axè Capoeira Academy in the Eastern Black Sea Region and 12 healthy children (mean age=9.33±1.00 years) who were not participating in any regular physical activity program. Sociodemographic data and anthropometric measurement results of the participants were recorded. Muscle morphometry was assessed with ultrasonographic measurements, muscle strength with isokinetic measurements, dynamic balance status with the Functional Reach Test, timed performance levels with the 6 Minute Walk Test, and emotional status with the Children's Emotion Regulation Scale (CRE). The groups were similar in terms of morphometric and anthropometric characteristics (p>0.05). Extensor isokinetic muscle strength, functional reach test, and CDRS excitement subscale results were found to be significantly better in the capoeira group (pextright=0.008, pextleft=0.001, pFRT=0.025, pexcitement=0.029). This study revealed that children who practice capoeira have better dynamic balance, lower extremity muscle strength and emotional excitement management than children who do not. It will contribute to further studies that include morphometric and anthropometric characteristics of body structure and functions of capoeira.