Development of speed in children aged 11 to 12 years practicing athletics -quasi-experimental non-randomized study

Abstract

Background: The development of speed in primary school children can be improved during the sensitive period of this quality. Objective: To analyze the effects of speed and reaction exercises on speed in athletic children between 11 and 12 years old. Methods: Quasi-experimental, non-randomized study conducted between September 2022 and March 2023, in which 42 children aged 11-12 years belonging to the Basic sports school No. 8 in Kirov (Russia) were assigned to a control (n=21) and experimental (n=21) group. The classes in the control group were carried out according to the usual athletic training plan, while the experimental group used exercises for speed development. Both groups were evaluated by the tests ''Running on the spot'', ''Shuttle running 10x5 meters'' and ''Sprint 10 meters''. Results: The control group did not present significant improvements (p>0.05), while the experimental group reported significant improvements in ''Running on the spot'' (20%; p<0.05), ''Shuttle running 10x5 meters'' (15%; p<0.05) and ''Sprint 10 meters'' (8.6%; p<0.05). Conclusion: An exercise program focused on speed development in children aged 11-12 years can significantly improve the different manifestations of speed.