Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess whether a lesson of physical activity based on a traditional Tunisian game could be a useful tool for soliciting the cardiovascular system in children. Methods: nineteen pre-pubertal were randomly performed in different days, two types of lessons (intermittent running mode vs. traditional Tunisian game “Raquassa”) lasting 12-min each. Heart Rate was continuously recorded during both lessons, while ratings of perceived exertion and Feeling values were recorded. Results: the mean Heart Rate value during traditional game was significantly higher than during intermittent exercise (p<0.05). Conversely, the perceived exertion score was significantly higher after intermittent exercise than traditional exercise game (p<0.05) showing that the higher cardiovascular strain of the game was perceived ‘’lighter’’ than the run. Simultaneously, the Feeling was significantly higher after traditional game than intermittent exercise (p<0.001) showing a higher satisfaction from playing with respect to running. Conclusions: exercise based on the ‘’Raquassa’’ traditional game could be used in pre-pubertal children as an alternative or as an additional method for suitable cardiovascular solicitation during physical education lessons in children with lower perceived exertion and better feeling than intermittent running. Verf.-Referat