Comprehensive methodology for developing motor skills in rhythmic gymnastics

Background and Study Aim. Modern rhythmic gymnastics is characterized by high demands on the level of development of motor qualities at the initial stages of training. Scientists point out that timely and methodically substantiated formation of flexibility, coordination, speed, endurance and strength is the key to achieving stable sports results in the future. However, the question of the effectiveness of complex programs that combine the development of several qualities simultaneously during the annual macrocycle remains open. The purpost of the study was to determine the degree of influence of the experimental training program on the level of development of the main motor skills of female gymnasts aged 6-7 years. Material and methods. 31 female gymnasts aged 6-7 years took part in the pedagogical experiment. The athletes were divided into control (n=16) and experimental (n=15) groups. The research program included the use of standard tests to assess flexibility, speed abilities, as well as the strength of the muscles of the arms, abdominals, and legs. The duration of the pedagogical experiment was 12 months in the structure of the annual macrocycle of training. For statistical analysis of the results, Student's t-test was used. Analysis and processing of data was carried out using the SPSS Statistics 25.0 program at a significance level of p<0,05. Results. Significant improvements were recorded in the experimental group for all the main tests: the greatest improvement was obtained in the following indicators: twisting the arms back with a gymnastic stick (t=6,42; p<0,001), transverse splits (t=5,02; p<0,001), bridge stand (t=5,22; p<0,001), forward bend sitting with legs apart (t=3,75; p<0,001). Additionally, an increase in strength and speed indicators was noted. Conclusions. The obtained results confirm the effectiveness of the integrated methodology for developing motor skills in children aged 6-7 years, since improving one of the physical fitness indicators affects other qualities involved in their implementation. Therefore, it is advisable to direct further research to developing integrated programs for different ages.