The use of sound during exercise to assist development for children with and without movement difficulties

Abstract

Purpose. To identify and review the literature on the role of sound in facilitating movement and development. The emphasis was to consider the role of sound during exercise and rehabilitation and to encourage researchers to further explore the role of sound in movement development and rehabilitation.

Methods. A review of key and relevant literature was conducted. Data related to the proof-of-concept of a ball emitting broadband sound to enhance motor development in children with and without movement disorders is presented.

Results. Analyses of the data indicated an interaction between group and block of training (p ≤ 0.05). Scores indicated that there was no effect of training on the pre- and post-scores for the non-sound group or the control group. However, there was significant effect of training on pre- and post-scores for the group using a ball emitting broadband sound.

Conclusions. Preliminary results indicate skill development can be enhanced by the use of broadband sound in balls and further research is required.

Keywords:

• Movement skills
• superior colliculus
• broadband sound

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.