Comparison of Two Methods of Improving Dynamic Balance of Mentally Retarded Children

To compare the effectiveness of a creative dance and a movement exploration program in relation to balance performance 26 mildly and moderately mentally retarded boys and girls (ages 8 to 13 years) were randomly assigned to one of the programs. Mean ages of the subjects in the dance and movement exploration groups were 10.5 yr. and 11.1 yr., respectively. Each group received 24 lessons of 30 min. each, in the 8-wk. program. Pre- and posttest distance on six balance-beam tasks and stabilometer performance subjected to multivariate analysis of covariance indicated no significant differences.