Comparison of the Effectiveness of a Gymnastics Training Program and Teaching Games for Understanding on Improving Gross Motor Skills in Children Aged 4 to 11 Years

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a gymnastics training program and the Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) approach in enhancing gross motor skills among children aged 4 to 11 years.

Methods and Materials: A quasi-experimental design with a pre-test and post-test structure was employed. Sixty girls aged 4 to 11 years from Mashhad, who had no prior experience in gymnastics, were recruited using convenience sampling. Participants were randomly assigned to either the gymnastics training group or the TGfU group, each further divided into two age-based subgroups (4\u20137 years and 8\u201311 years). Gross motor skills were assessed using the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a one-way multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) to determine differences between the groups.

Findings: Both the gymnastics training program and TGfU approach significantly improved gross motor skills. However, the TGfU group showed a greater increase in mean post-test scores compared to the gymnastics group. ANCOVA results confirmed a statistically significant difference in motor skill improvement between the two interventions, with TGfU exhibiting a stronger overall effect. These findings highlight TGfU\u2019s ability to integrate cognitive engagement and contextual learning, resulting in greater enhancements in motor skill development.

Conclusion: The TGfU approach demonstrated superior effectiveness in enhancing gross motor skills compared to gymnastics training. While gymnastics promotes strength and balance through structured routines, TGfU fosters intrinsic motivation and cognitive understanding.