Evaluation of Explosive Strength Levels of the Lower Limbs in Physically Active Children at the Primary Education Level

<ns3:p> BACKGROUND: The level of explosive strength in the lower limbs is recognized as an effective diagnostic tool for assessing athletes' preparedness. Investigating the level of explosive strength thus provides a valuable contribution to the advancement of knowledge necessary for the effective development of training and educational programs. PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to expand knowledge regarding the level of lower limb explosive strength in primary school children. MATERIALS and METHODS: The research sample consisted of 96 participants with a mean age of 10.4 0.6 years, including 44 regularly physically active individuals and 52 non-active individuals. Lower limb explosive strength was assessed using the Chronojump diagnostic system. Specifically, the following vertical jump tests were analyzed. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were identified between the regularly physically active and inactive groups of children in any of the analyzed performance parameters (CMJ: t = 1.297; p = 0.198; CMJ FA: t = 1.900; p = 0.061; SJ: t = 0.529; p = 0.407; standing long jump: t = 1.182; p = 0.240). The analysis of differences between active and non-active individuals of the same sex did not show statistically significant differences in any of the conducted tests. CONCLUSIONS: We recommend systematic support for regular physical activity already in the prepubescent age, with specific emphasis on applying appropriate training methods to enhance the development of lower limbs explosive strength. </ns3:p>