Abstract:

The aim of this research was to determine the differences in motor abilities and morphological characteristics between primary school female pupils from Croatia and Spain. The research sample included a total of 83 female pupils, where 43 from Zagreb (7,6±0,5 years of age), Croatia and 40 from Murcia, Spain (6,9±0,9 years of age) who were attending primary school. The results were described with descriptive statistics while normality of distribution was tested by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and statistically significant difference between the groups was determined by the Student t-test.

Results showed statistically significant differences in anthropometrical measure of height (p=0,00) and body weight (p=0,02) where Croatian children are taller and thicker in comparison of Spain girls. Statistically significant differences have been determined in motor abilities explosive strength (standing long jump test (p=0,00)), flexibility (sit and reach test (p=0,017)), and coordination (backwards obstacle course (p=0,01)) where Croatian girls showed better results. Spain girls showed statistically significantly better results in motor ability speed of movement frequency (hand tapping test (p=0,01)).

In accordance with European and international guidelines, it is necessary to conduct different research that would provide comparability with other countries in the field of anthropological characteristics of children in primary education.

Keywords:

Anthropometrical measures, curriculum, girls, lower grades of primary school, motor abilities, physical education.