Physical Function of Preschoolers of Four Years Old with Urban and Rural Residence

Introduction: The residence place may have influence over the expression of the physical fitness components during preschool age. The objective of this study was to determine the physical function components among four years old preschoolers of urban and rural residence. Materials and methods: A comparative-descriptive cross-sectional study that assessed fifty children of four years old, of which 27 had rural residence and 23 urban. Place of residence (urban or rural), muscular performance of lower and upper limbs, balance, stability and flexibility were considered. To measure these characteristics, physical performance tests such as standing long jump, grip strength, balance walking on a straight line (balance beam), unipodal support with eyes open and closed, and sitting in V were used respectively; furthermore, the level of physical activity was measured. Results: The boys and girls of rural residence had higher levels of physical activity (<0,001) and upper extremities muscle performance compared with their urban peers (p = 0,012). The other physical function components did not show statistical differences. Discussion: In this group of study, the residence place would have influence on the physical function of four years old preschoolers.