Effect 0f Resistance training program on physical self concept and body function of boys with cerebral palsy at age of 13-18 years

Physical Self Concept can be affected from interventions such as sport and exercise training. So in order to enhancing the person`s physical characteristics perception and creation the partnership motivation in physical activity, it is important to know a bout the way of affecting this methods of training. this study was designed to evaluate the effect of a progressive resistance training program on the physical self concept and body function of boys with cerebral palsy. Sixteen students [mean age 16.05 years (SD 1.2)] with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy were randomly divided in control (7) and experimental (9) groups. Participants in the experimental group completed a progressive resistance-training program (8 week) using three exercises to strengthen the major support muscles of lower limbs. Pre and post intervention, the physical self- concept was measured by the Physical Self-Description Questionnaire, and body function was measured by the balance test, walking test, stair test, and strength tests of Ankle plantar flexors, Knee extensors, Hip extensors. The data was analyzed via repeated measures and independent T-test. overall, the body function of experimental group showed a significant changes in balance test, walking test, stair test, and strength tests of Ankle plantar flexors, Knee extensors, Hip extensors (p<0/05). But, difference between the pre test and post test averages of the experimental group in global physical self concept and their subscales was not significant (p>0/05). in order to change in physical self concept via physical activity, it is crucial to control the factors such as period of training, training context, intention of subjects and etc.