Comparison of different training methods in child gymnasts according to selected characteristics: A randomized controlled study

In this research, it was aimed to compare the effects of different training methods on the functional movement, vertical jump, speed, agility, range of motion (flexibility) and dynamic balance characteristics of child gymnasts. In the research, a real experimental design with a randomized control group, including repeated measurements, was used, which is one of the quantitative research methods. Through matching and randomization processes, a total of 69 participants were assigned to the Gymnastics+Functional Training Group (FTG), Gymnastics+Traditional Training Group (TTG) and Routine Gymnastics Training Group (Control Group: CG). FMS Test, Lateralization Test: Hand and Foot, Y Dynamic Balance Test, Vertical Jump Test, 20m Speed Test, Flexibility Test and Agility T Test were applied to collect data. For data analysis, G*Power analysis (a priori and F tests), data normality test, descriptive statistics, mixed pattern two-way ANOVA test, Mauchly sphericity test, Greenhouse Geiser test, LSD post hoc test, partial Eta Square (𝜂2𝑝) for effect size) used. The significance level was accepted as p<0.05 and the confidence interval was 95%. Quantitatively, the most effective method in terms of the developments of functional movement, right lower-upper and left lower-upper dynamic balance, speed, agility, and vertical jump is gymnastics+functional training, but since there is no statistically significant difference between gymnastics + traditional training, it can be said that both trainings affect these features equally. When it comes to flexibility, the results are different; gymnastics+functional training made a significant difference compared to other trainings. Routine gymnastics training does not have the effect of gymnastics+functional or gymnastics+traditional training methods in terms of the development of any of the mentioned characteristics. According to these results, functional training can be applied together with other exercise and training models or sport-specific training to increase sedentary, exerciser or athlete performance in terms of the development of motor properties and functional movement skills. It has been suggested that new research should be conducted with athletes of different genders and sports branches, longer-term studies should be conducted in terms of training effects, and functional exercises should be started from younger ages. Keywords: FMS, motor skill, training, development