Abstract

Different authors have highlighted the importance of developing coordination in the early stages of individuals’ lives. This results in better motor control and skills, which are crucial not only for a healthy life but also for laying the coordinative foundations needed for different sports. The aim of this study was to analyse the effects of a 10-week proprioception training program, with and without a ball, on the  improvement of coordination of male children aged 6 to 9 years old. A total of 40 participants were separated in two groups. Both underwent a proprioception training programme, one group performing exercises using a ball and the other without one. A total of 38 children finished the programme. The results showed a trend towards improvement in both groups; however, statistically significant changes were only found in the group that performed exercises without the ball. In conclusion, in a group of children aged 6 to 9, a proprioceptive training programme was proven to be effective at reaching the target of improving their level of coordination. The results indicate that in order to improve coordination by means of proprioception training, exercises without a ball are more effective that exercises using a ball.