Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate the effect of rhythm jump training on the rhythm and motor abilities of elementary school students to provide insights into its potential benefits for their physical performance and coordination. Methods: A non-randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 101 elementary school students (grades 1-6) attending a soccer school. Participants were divided into a rhythm jump group (n = 51, age: 7.5 years, height: 126.0 cm, weight: 25.7 kg) and a control group (n = 39, age: 8.0 years, height: 128.8 cm, weight: 26.5 kg) based on their practice venue. The rhythm jump group engaged in 10 min of rhythm jump at the beginning of soccer practice once a week over 8 weeks (intervention period), while the control group continued regular soccer training. Measurements included rhythmic reproduction ability during jumps, Pro Agility Test (PAT) values, and Reactive Strength Index (RSI) scores, assessed before and after the intervention period. Rhythmic reproduction ability was measured by comparing the data of the timing of jumps to 4- and 8-beat audio tracks. These were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Significant interactions were observed between 8-beat rhythmic reproduction ability and PAT values. In 8-beat rhythm deviation, a significant decrease was observed in the rhythm jump group (0.048 s) compared to that in the control group (0.013 s) (p < 0.01). PAT time significantly decreased in the rhythm jump group (0.18 s) compared to the control group (-0.25 s) (p < 0.01). There was no observed interaction between 4-beat rhythmic reproduction ability and RSI. Conclusions: This study revealed that rhythm jump training can be effective even with short sessions and infrequent practice, emphasizing its efficiency. The short-term rhythm jump intervention improved the 8-beat rhythmic reproduction ability and agility of elementary school students.