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Research Article Volume 8 Issue 3
Influence of physical exercise on postural alignment and walking patterns in primary education students
Aida Bendo, Denis Nuriu
Department of Physical Activity and Health, Institute of Sports Scientific Research, Sports University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
Department of Movement and Health, Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Sports University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
Received: October 08, 2025 | Published: October 24, 2025
Citation: Nuriu D, Bendo A. Influence of physical exercise on postural alignment and walking patterns in primary education students. MOJ Sports Med. 2025;8(3):85‒91. DOI: 10.15406/mojsm.2025.08.00189
Abstract
Background: Physical activity
is essential for developing neuromuscular function, posture, and gait in
children and adolescents, while sedentary behaviors may impair musculoskeletal
alignment and functional movement. Integrating structured exercise into school
curricula can promote healthy physical development and movement competence.
Aim
of study:
This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 12-week structured physical
activity program on gait, posture, and functional stability among primary
school-aged children and adolescents.
Methods: One hundred
forty-seven children were assigned to an experimental group undergoing a
12-week exercise program or a control group with regular activity. Assessments
included Leonardo Mechanography, plantar pressure, G-sensor, and Posture Screen
Mobile, measuring gait, posture, and BMI. Data was analyzed using paired
t-tests, Wilcoxon tests, effect sizes (Cohen’s d), and correlations (p <
0.05).
Findings: The experimental
group exhibited significant improvements in walking speed (+0.13 m/s), step
symmetry (+4%), postural sway (-0.7 cm SI), shoulder slope (-0.8°), and pelvic tilt (-1.4°),
along with a modest reduction in BMI (-0.3 kg/m²).
The control group showed minimal changes. These findings indicate that
structured physical activity enhances neuromuscular coordination, gait
efficiency, and postural alignment. The integrated use of biomechanical and
postural assessment tools allowed for multidimensional evaluation of functional
improvements, reinforcing the positive impact of targeted exercise
interventions on musculoskeletal health in children.
Conclusions: Structured,
moderate-intensity physical activity effectively enhances gait, posture, and
functional stability in primary school children and adolescents. Implementing
such programs in schools promotes physical literacy, neuromuscular development,
and long-term musculoskeletal health, offering evidence-based guidance for
educators and policymakers.
Keywords: gait, musculoskeletal health, posture, physical activity, primary school children
©2025 Nuriu, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.