Effects of different movement programs on motor competence: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to use the meta-analytic approach to assess the effectiveness of different types of movement programs on motor competence (MC) in participants of all ages. Methods: Studies were retrieved by searching 13 databases and were included when criteria were met. Studies were selected and data was extracted by two authors. Random effects models using the standardized mean difference effect size (ES) were used to pool results. Risk of bias, heterogeneity, and inconsistency was examined. Results: Thirty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. A total 374 of ES were calculated and partitioned into four groups (motor intervention, free play, PE classes, control group). Statistically significant improvements in MC were observed for the motor intervention (ES = 1.50; CI95% = 1.18, 1.82, n = 36), as well as free play (ES = 0.33; CI95% = 0.09, 0.57; n = 5), PE classes (ES = 0.52; CI95% = 0.08, 0.97; n = 15), and smaller statistically significant differences in MC were observed for the control groups (ES = 0.16, CI95% = 0.01, 0.31; n = 6). Conclusions: All groups improve MC in children, adolescents, and young-adults. However, motor interventions were superior to all other groups for improving MC.