Differences in Morphological Characteristics and Motoric Abilities Between Boys and Girls From II to V Grades of Elementary School

Abstract

The research was conducted on a sample of N=1850 students from the 2nd to the 5th grade of elementary school, of which there were N=989 (53%) male respondents and N=861 (47%) female respondents. The research aimed to determine the differences in morphological characteristics and motor abilities between boys and girls from the 2nd to the 5th grade of elementary school. The descriptive statistical method and the t-test for independent samples were applied from the statistical methods. The statistical program for personal computers, SPSS for Windows version 22, was used for data processing. Analyzing the results of morphological characteristics, it was determined that boys have a higher body mass index (BMI) and skin fold on the back (subscapular) than girls. No differences were found in the skin fold of the upper arm (triceps) and the skin folds on the abdomen (suprailiac). Analyzing the results of motor skills, it was determined that boys are better at reaching in a squat (flexibility), lying/squatting (trunk strength), and resisting in a push-up (functional strength). At the same time, girls are better at the standing long jump (explosive leg strength) and hand strength (static strength). All the mentioned tests were statistically significant at the level of less than 1% (p<0.01), only the flexion endurance test (functional strength) was statistically significant at the level of p<0.05. In the flamingo tests (balance) and running 10x5 m back and forth (running speed and agility), the results were in favor of girls, and in the hand tapping test (movement speed), the results were in favor of boys, but these differences were not statistically significant. It is necessary to act preventively and carry out more frequent tests and measurements of elementary school-aged students to monitor changes in growth and development.