Viabilidade da aplicação do tecido acrobático no desempenho físico e função do movimento em crianças: ensaio clínico não randomizado comparativo duplo-cego

Abstract

Aerial silks stands out as a playful and challenging physical practice, integrating strength, flexibility, and coordination. Despite its recognized pedagogical potential, evidence regarding its quantitative impacts on children's motor and functional development, as well as its feasibility and safety, remains scarce. This dissertation, structured as a collection of articles, investigated the feasibility, safety perception, and effects of an aerial silks intervention on children's neuromuscular and functional development. Chapter 1 (technical-conceptual study) established the modality as a complementary strategy for physical literacy and conditioning applicable to sports initiation and Artistic Gymnastics. Chapter 2 (empirical study) evaluated this application through a 7-week intervention (14 sessions, twice weekly) with 19 children (11.00±2.02 years), divided into an Aerial Silks Group (n=10) and an Artistic Gymnastics Group (n=9). Neuromuscular fitness (Squat Jump, Countermovement Jump, static plank, Kimono Grip Strength Test - KGST, and handgrip dynamometry), movement patterns (Functional Movement Screen - FMS), dynamic postural control (Y-Balance Test), and feasibility/safety (Likert scales and Focus Group) were assessed. The practice proved fully feasible and safe, showing high adherence mediated by pedagogical support and protective equipment. Regarding physical performance, aerial silks promoted significant gains equivalent to Artistic Gymnastics in lower limb power, core endurance, pulling strength (KGST), FMS, and Y-Balance Test reach, with no changes in peak handgrip strength. It is concluded that aerial silks is a safe, feasible, and effective motor intervention for physical and functional development in childhood.