Correlation between Dynamic Balance and Reaction Time in Children between Age 9 - 13 Years: An Observational Study

Background: An efficient reaction time is closely associated with the ability to maintain equilibrium. Between the ages 6 - 10 years, children develop the skills to maintain balance under dynamic conditions which are essential for activities like sports, dance, etc. By the age of 11 years, children attain optimum reaction time. Objective: to find whether any correlation exists between dynamic balance and reaction time in children between age 9 - 13 years. Method: 105 participants between the ages 9 - 13 years were selected in the study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. . Reaction time and dynamic balance were assessed using the ruler drop test and The Y - Balance test respectively. The data was collected and statistically analyzed. Results: The correlation of reaction time and dynamic balance scores were statistically analyzed, indicating a strong negative correlation with an r value of - .864. Conclusion: This study concludes that reaction time shows a strong negative correlation with dynamic balance in school children between the age 9 - 13 years (r = - 0.864).