Comparison of Core Stabilization in Children Performing and Nonperforming Folk Dances Between 12-14 Years Old

Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. Uluslararası Sağlık, Egzersiz ve Spor Bilimleri Dergisi, (2025) International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences (IJOSS) ISSN: 3023-8382 RESEARCH ARTICLE / Araştırma Makalesi Open Access/Açık Erişim IJOSS © The Author(s), 2024. Open Access. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which allows for unrestricted use, sharing, adaptation, distribution, and reproduction in any medium or format, provided proper credit is given to the original author(s) and the source. A link to the Creative Commons license must be included, and any changes made to the original work must be clearly indicated. Unless otherwise specified in a credit line, all images or third-party materials included in this article fall under the article’s Creative Commons license. If any material is not covered by the Creative Commons license and your intended use is not permitted by law or exceeds the permissible scope, you must obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Comparison of Core Stabilization in Children Performing and Nonperforming Folk Dances Between 12-14 Years Old 12-14 Yaş Arası Halk Dansı Yapan ve Yapmayan Çocuklarda Core Stabilizasyonunun Karşılaştırılması Ufuk Han BAĞAÇLI1, Sertaç ERÇİŞ2 Abstract This study examines the differences in trunk stabilization, balance, and flexibility between children who regularly participate in folk dance training and their sedentary peers in the Erzurum region. The research was conducted on 40 male students (mean age: 12.95±0.67 years), with 20 participants engaged in folk dance for approximately five years and 20 leading a sedentary lifestyle. Standardized tests were employed to assess trunk stabilization (plank, side plank, Sorensen back extension, and sit-up tests), balance (star excursion balance test, stork balance test), and flexibility (sit-and-reach test). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with a significance level of p<0.05. Results indicated significantly higher performance in the folk-dance group across all parameters. Specifically, the folk-dance group demonstrated superior performance in the plank test (71.70±27.28s vs. 41.05±17.81s), sit-up test (23.4±9.25 reps vs. 5.90±4.09 reps), Sorensen test (164.55±51.22s vs. 91.60±58.59s), and balance tests. Additionally, flexibility scores were higher in the folk-dance group (27.95±4.26 cm vs. 16.60±5.79 cm). These findings suggest that folk dance training enhances core stability, balance, and flexibility, supporting its potential role as an effective physical activity for improving musculoskeletal health in children. Key Words Flexibility, Balance, Folk Dances, Core Stabilization Özet Bu çalışma, Erzurum bölgesinde düzenli olarak halk dansı eğitimi alan çocuklar ile sedanter akranları arasındaki gövde stabilizasyonu, denge ve esneklik farklılıklarını incelemektedir. Araştırmaya yaş ortalaması 12,95±0,67 yıl olan 40 erkek öğrenci katılmıştır. Katılımcıların 20’si yaklaşık beş yıldır halk dansı ile uğraşmakta, diğer 20’si ise sedanter yaşam sürmektedir. Gövde stabilizasyonu için plank, yan plank, Sorensen sırt ekstansiyon ve mekik testleri; denge için yıldız denge testi ve leylek denge testi; esneklik için otur-uzan testi kullanılmıştır. İstatistiksel analizler SPSS programı ile yapılmış ve anlamlılık düzeyi p<0,05 olarak kabul edilmiştir. Sonuçlar, halk dansı grubunun tüm parametrelerde anlamlı derecede daha yüksek performans sergilediğini göstermiştir. Özellikle plank testi (71,70±27,28 sn’ye karşı 41,05±17,81 sn), mekik testi (23,4±9,25 tekrar’a karşı 5,90±4,09 tekrar), Sorensen testi (164,55±51,22 sn’ye karşı 91,60±58,59 sn) ve denge testlerinde halk dansı grubunun üstün performans gösterdiği belirlenmiştir. Ayrıca, esneklik değerleri de halk dansı grubunda daha yüksek bulunmuştur (27,95±4,26 cm’ye karşı 16,60±5,79 cm). Bu bulgular, halk dansı eğitiminin çocuklarda gövde stabilitesi, denge ve esnekliği geliştirdiğini ve kas-iskelet sağlığının iyileştirilmesinde etkili bir fiziksel aktivite olabileceğini ortaya koymaktadır. Anahtar Kelimeler: Esneklik, Denge, Halk Dansları, Gövde Stabilizasyonu https://www.ijoss.org/Archive/issue2-volume2/ijoss-Volume2-issue2-10.pdf *Correspondence: Ufuk Han BAĞAÇLI ufukhanbagac[email protected]om 1Necmettin Erbakan Fen Lisesi, Erzurum, Türkiye. ufukhanbagac[email protected]om 0009-0000-1679-1554 2Atatürk Üniversitesi, Spor Bilimleri Fakültesi, Erzurum, Türkiye 0000-0003-2966-4049 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17454998 Received / Gönderim: 29.01.2025 Accepted / Kabul: 08.06.2025 Published / Yayın: 30.06.2025 Volume 2, Issue 2, June, 2025 Cilt 2, Sayı 2, Haziran, 2025 Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Vol 2, Issue 2, June 2025 Page 98 of 109 Introduction Nowadays, the positive effects of physical activity on general health are supported by numerous scientific studies (Warburton et al., 2006). The continuous promotion of physical activity plays a critical role in reducing risk factors for chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and obesity, thereby improving individuals' overall quality of life (Booth et al., 2012). However, the declining physical activity levels in modern societies have increased the prevalence of sedentary lifestylerelated diseases (Hallal et al., 2012). This situation highlights the importance of policies promoting the prevalence of sports and supporting a healthy lifestyle in society. Folk dances stand out as a remarkable domain for promoting physical activity. Beyond being an art form and cultural heritage, folk dances are recognized as an exercise form that actively engages large muscle groups, enhancing essential physical attributes such as balance, flexibility, and endurance (Gerek, 2007). Dance provides numerous physiological benefits, including dynamic postural control, motor skill development, and increased proprioceptive awareness (Kattenstroth et al., 2013). For these reasons, it is of great importance to analyze folk dances from a sports science perspective and to examine their effects on physical health parameters in detail. The integration of folk dances into physical activity programs can be a crucial strategy for adopting a healthy lifestyle, particularly during childhood and adolescence. Participation in physical activity during childhood plays a critical role in motor development and adaptation of the skeletal muscle system, fostering lifelong engagement in physical activities (Tao et al., 2022). However, participation in exercisebased physical activity programs remains low. Including alternative activities instead of traditional sports disciplines may enhance individuals' motivation. As a social and enjoyable activity, folk dances can serve as an effective tool to increase participation rates in physical activities (Quiroga Murcia et al., 2010). Several studies have been conducted to understand the physiological and biomechanical effects of folk dances. A study by Oskolkov et al. (2017) demonstrated that folk dances contribute significantly to the development of muscle strength and balance. Similarly, research by Bunning and Bartlett (2013) indicated that dance-based exercises improve postural stability and proprioceptive senses. These findings suggest that folk dances can be beneficial for both young and elderly individuals and can play an effective role in rehabilitation processes. This study aims to examine the differences in physical parameters among children aged 12-14 years living in the Erzurum region who regularly participate in folk dances and those who lead a sedentary lifestyle without engaging in physical activity. Focusing on core stability, balance, and flexibility, this research scientifically addresses the effects of folk dances on physical development and highlights the potential health benefits of this traditional activity. In this context, the findings obtained are expected to provide a deeper understanding of the role of folk dances in the fields of sports science and physical education and contribute to the formation of policies aimed at increasing the prevalence of physical activity in society. Materials And Methods The present study was designed to reveal the effects of Erzurum region folk dances on core stabilization, balance, and flexibility by measuring these characteristics in children who play and do not play folk dances using appropriate testing methods. A total of 40 participants aged 12-14 years (mean age: 12.95±0.67) were included in this study. The participants were divided into two groups: experimental and control. The research was Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Vol 2, issue 2, June 2025 Page 99 of 109 conducted with approval from the relevant ethics committee, and informed consent forms were collected from the participants before the study began, with their participation based on voluntariness. Experimental Group This group consists of 20 participants who have regularly attended folk dance training from the Erzurum region for 3 to 7 years (mean sports age: 4.3±1.26 years). The participants engage in folk dance training at least three times a week, with each session lasting between 60 to 90 minutes. Control Group : This group consists of 20 participants who do not engage in any physical activity and lead a sedentary lifestyle. These participants are physically inactive and typically spend their out-of-school time being sedentary. Data Collection Procedure Height Measurement The participants' heights were measured using a Mesitaş brand portable measurement device with an accuracy of ±1 mm. During the measurement process, participants were instructed to stand barefoot with their heels together and in an anatomical posture. Additionally, participants were asked to hold their breath during the measurement. The device was placed on the front of the participant's head to take the measurement, and the obtained values were recorded in centimeters (cm). Body Weight Measurement The participants' body weights were determined using an electronic scale with an accuracy of ±0.1 kg. During the measurement, participants were instructed to stand barefoot, wear sportswear, and remain stationary. The obtained measurement values were recorded in kilograms (kg). Core Strength Measurement Tests Core region stabilization was assessed using four previously validated tests. These tests include the prone bridge (plank test), sit-up test, back extension test (back isometric endurance test), and lateral flexion test (side plank). Before starting the measurements, participants were given a 15-minute warm-up period. The first 10 minutes of the warmup consisted of light-paced jogging, and the remaining 5 minutes were spent on stretching exercises. Participants were divided into groups of 10 and each group was taken to the test area. Measurements were conducted sequentially at each measurement station, with 5-minute rest intervals between stations. Prone Bridge Test The participant was placed in a prone position, with forearms and elbows shoulderwidth apart, and the body was lifted onto the toes. In this position, the neck, shoulders, back, hips, and legs were made to form a straight line parallel to the ground. To ensure that the test was applied correctly, the starting position was measured with a meter. If any positional deterioration was observed during the test, the test was stopped, and the current time was recorded. Each participant was given a 15-minute rest period and two measurements were taken, and the highest score was recorded in seconds (Yılmaz, 2018). Sit-Up Test: Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Vol 2, issue 2, June 2025 Page 100 of 109 The participant lies on their back with their legs bent at the knee and pulled toward the torso, positioning the legs to form a 90-degree angle with the floor. The hands are clasped behind the head. After assuming the starting position, the participant is instructed to touch the left patella with the right elbow and then return to the starting position. Similarly, the same movement is repeated with the other arm and leg. Before the test, the examiner demonstrates how the movement should be performed correctly, and a trial run is conducted. Each participant is given a 15-minute rest period, and two measurements are taken. The correct number of repetitions is counted and recorded in frequency (Şahin et al., 2015). Back Extension Test : The participant is positioned face down with their body placed on the bench, and the torso is allowed to hang off the edge of the bench. The upper extremities are positioned to hang over the front of the bench at the waist level, and the arms are crossed over the chest. The lower extremities are fixed by the person conducting the measurement. When the participant is ready, the timer is started, and the test continues until fatigue, pain, or any disruption in the position occurs. Before the test, the examiner demonstrates how the movement should be performed, and a trial run is conducted. Each participant is given a 15-minute rest period, and two measurements are taken. The highest score is recorded in seconds (sn) (Bliss & Teeple, 2005). Lateral Flexion Test The participant lies on their side on a flat surface, with their body extended and aligned parallel to the ground, forming a 90-degree angle. The forearm and feet are used to lift the body upwards. The participant is instructed to maintain the position while keeping the body parallel to the ground. The test continues until the participant becomes fatigued or there is any disruption in the position. Before the test, the examiner demonstrates how the movement should be performed, and a trial run is conducted. Each participant is given a 15-minute rest period, and two measurements are taken. The highest score is recorded in seconds (sn) (Bliss & Teeple, 2005). Balance Tests: In the study, various balance tests were applied to assess the participants' balance performance. These tests included the dominant and non-dominant star balance tests and the stork balance test. Participants were asked to come dressed in light sportswear on the measurement day. The measurements were conducted in groups of 10. Upon entering the measurement area, participants first performed a 5-minute light-paced jog, followed by 5 minutes of stretching exercises to complete their general warm-up. After the warm-up process, the balance tests were conducted in sequence. First, the dominant star balance test was applied, followed by the non-dominant star balance test, and finally, the stork balance test. Measurements were performed sequentially at each station, with rest periods provided between stations. Star Balance Test This test assesses the participants' balance, strength, joint range of motion, and posture performance. The test is conducted first with the dominant foot and then with the nondominant foot, involving the lower extremities. The participant stretches their foot along lines drawn in eight directions. Initially, the participant places one foot at the star's center and reaches with the other leg along eight separate lines drawn at a 45-degree angle. The participant is instructed to stretch as far as possible without losing balance, and the foot heel is recorded as the farthest point reached. The distance of the stretch is Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Vol 2, issue 2, June 2025 Page 101 of 109 measured from the center of the foot. The measurements are taken in the following directions: anterior (front), anteromedial (front-inner side), lateral (side), posterolateral (back-side), posterior (back-inner side), postermedial (back-inner side), medial (inner side), and anterolateral (front-side). The measurements are first performed with the dominant leg, followed by the non-dominant leg. Before the test, the examiner demonstrates how the movement should be performed, and a trial run is conducted. Measurements are taken barefoot. Each participant is given a 15-minute rest period, and two measurements are taken. The best score is recorded in centimeters (cm). The total reach distance for each participant is calculated by summing the distances in all directions (Şahin et al., 2015). Stork Balance Test The participant stood upright, barefoot, with their hands on their hips. While the supporting leg remained on the ground, the other leg was lifted and placed on the knee of the supporting leg. The timer started when instructed. The timer was stopped when the movement was disrupted due to fatigue or loss of balance. Two measurements were taken for each participant with a 15-minute rest interval, and the best score was recorded in seconds (Kranti Panta, 2015). Sit and Reach Test The participant sat in front of a box with dimensions of 35 cm in length, 45 cm in width, and 32 cm in height. After placing their bare feet against the inner surface of the box, they attempted to push the bar on the plate as far forward as possible using both hands. Before the test, the person conducting the study demonstrated the test and allowed the participant to perform a trial run. The measurement was taken twice, and the best result was recorded in centimeters (Sever, 2016). Statistical Analysis The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 software, a widely used statistical package for social sciences. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests were applied to assess the normality of data distribution. Since the data followed a normal distribution, parametric tests were conducted for further analysis. To compare differences between the folk-dance group (experimental group) and the sedentary group (control group) in terms of core stabilization, balance, and flexibility, the independent samples t-test was employed. This test determines whether there is a statistically significant difference between the means of two independent groups. The statistical significance level was set at p<0.05, meaning that disagreements observed with a probability lower than 5% were considered statistically significant. For each variable, mean (X) ± standard deviation (SD) values were calculated. Results This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of folk dances on physical performance. The physical test results of participants who play and do not play folk dances were compared based on age, height, and body weight. Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Vol 2, issue 2, June 2025 Page 102 of 109 Table 1. Descriptive characteristics of the participants N Minimum Maximum Mean Std. Deviation Year 40 12.00 14.00 12.9500 .67748 Heigt 40 138.00 178.00 157.4000 10.09392 Weight 40 30.40 84.90 49.7475 12.65177 The descriptive characteristics of the participants were determined as follows: age 12.95±0.67 years, height 157.40±10.09 cm, and body weight 49.74±12.65 kg. Table 2 Comparison of participants' descriptive information Variables Group N X Std. Deviation t p Year Playing 20 12,7000 ,80131 -2,484 ,019 Not playing 20 13,2000 ,41039 Height Playing 20 152,7000 11,01721 -3,296 ,002 Not playing 20 162,1000 6,42282 Weight Playing 20 47,2450 12,28390 -1,260 215 Not playing 20 52,2500 12,82500 p<0.05 level is significant. The anthropometric data comparison of the participants is presented in table 2. According to this table, the average age of those who play folk dances is 12.7±1.26 years, while the average age of the non-participating (sedentary) participants is 13.2±0.4 years. The average height of the folk dance participants is 152.7±11 cm, while for the sedentary participants, it is 162.1±6.4 cm. The average body weight of those who play folk dances is 47.24±12.28 kg, while for those who do not play, it is 52.25±12.82 kg. Table 3 Core Stabilization Test Measurements of the Groups Group N X Ss t p Differen ce Prone Bridge 20 71.70 27.282 4.207 ,000 1>2 20 41.05 17.813 Sit-Up 20 23.45 9.254 7.758 ,000 1>2 20 5.90 4.090 Back Extension 20 164.55 51.221 4.192 ,000 1>2 20 91.60 58.593 Lateral Flexion 20 47.20 16.929 3.867 ,000 1>2 20 28.55 13.367 p<0.05 level is significant. A t-test analysis was conducted to determine the differences between the participants' folk-dance participation and their performance in plank, sit-up, back isometric, and side bridge exercises. The analysis revealed no significant differences at the p>0.05 level. It was found that the folk-dance participants had higher performance in plank, sit-up, back isometric, and side bridge exercises compared to those who did not participate. Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Vol 2, issue 2, June 2025 Page 103 of 109 Table 4 Flexibility Test Measurements for Groups Variable Group N X Ss t p Difference Sit and Reach 20 27.95 4.261 7.061 0,000 1>2 20 16.60 5.789 p<0.05 level is significant. A t-test analysis was applied to examine the differences between the participants' folk dance participation and their performance in the sit-and-reach test. The analysis revealed no significant differences at the p>0.05 level. It was found that the folk dance participants had higher performance in the sit-and-reach test compared to those who did not participate. Table 5 T-Test Results of the Difference Between Tests According to the Year Participants Played Folk Dances Variables Group N X Ss T P Prone Bridge Under 4 years 10 68,70 21,567 -,482 ,637 --- Over 5 years 10 74,70 32,958 Sit-Up Under 4 years 10 22,00 7,803 -,691 ,499 --- Over 5 years 10 24,90 10,734 Back Extension Under 4 years 10 160,70 42,560 -,328 ,747 --- Over 5 years 10 168,40 60,782 Lateral Flexion Under 4 years 10 50,50 12,643 ,866 ,398 --- Over 5 years 10 43,90 20,518 Sit and Reach Under 4 years 10 27,60 3,950 1,059 ,724 --- Over 5 years 10 28,30 4,739 Stork Under 4 years 10 111,40 58,415 ,714 ,304 --- Over 5 years 10 82,80 62,327 Star Balance -Dominant Under 4 years 10 633,10 70,101 ,538 ,597 --- Over 5 years 10 619,00 44,302 Star Balance -NonDominant Under 4 years 10 625,20 70,781 ,594 ,560 --- Over 5 years 10 609,40 45,405 p<0.05 level is significant. A t-test analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between the participants' duration of folk dance participation and their performance in the plank, side bridge, stork, sit-up, back isometric, sit-and-reach, and star balance tests. The analysis revealed no significant difference at the p<0.05 level. Table 6 T-Test Results of the Differences Between Tests According to the Height of the Participants Variables Group N X Ss T P Prone Bridge Under 152cm 10 70,00 19,120 1,863 ,070 --- Over 153cm 30 51,83 28,648 Sit-Up Under 152cm 10 22,10 8,399 2,552 ,015 1>2 Over 153cm 30 12,20 11,226 Back Extension Under 152cm 10 163,40 54,423 2,042 ,048 1>2 Over 153cm 30 116,30 65,653 Lateral Flexion Under 152cm 10 45,30 16,667 1,553 ,129 --- Over 153cm 30 35,40 17,698 Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Vol 2, issue 2, June 2025 Page 104 of 109 Sit and Reach Under 152cm 10 27,20 4,826 2,513 ,016 1>2 Over 153cm 30 20,63 7,739 Stork Under 152cm 10 99,30 58,566 1,967 ,057 --- Over 153cm 30 60,73 52,105 Star Balance - Dominant Under 152cm 10 649,40 58,359 4,402 ,000 1>2 Over 153cm 30 553,23 60,268 Star Balance - NonDominant Under 152cm 10 642,10 53,582 4,486 ,000 1>2 Over 153cm 30 548,20 58,437 p<0.05 level is significant. A t-test analysis examined the relationship between participants' height and their performance in the sit-up, back isometric, sit-and-reach, and star balance tests. The analysis revealed significant differences at the p<0.05 level. It was found that participants with a height of less than 152 cm had higher total scores in the sit-up, back isometric, sit-and-reach, and star balance tests compared to participants taller than 153 cm. However, the t-test analysis results for the plank, side bridge, and stork tests showed no significant differences at the p<0.05 level. Table 7 T-Test Results of the Differences Between Tests According to the Height of the Participants Variables Group N X Ss T P Prone Bridge Under 50 kg 21 60,62 29,874 1,026 ,312 --- Over 51 kg 19 51,68 24,631 Sit-Up Under 50 kg 21 17,10 12,458 1,437 ,159 --- Over 51 kg 19 12,00 9,609 Back Extension Under 50 kg 21 148,33 62,393 2,143 ,039 1>2 Over 51 kg 19 105,68 63,374 Lateral Flexion Under 50 kg 21 43,71 17,961 2,302 ,027 1>2 Over 51 kg 19 31,42 15,561 Sit and Reach Under 50 kg 21 21,52 6,780 -,650 ,525 --- Over 51 kg 19 23,11 8,582 Stork Under 50 kg 21 74,90 53,839 ,536 ,595 --- Over 51 kg 19 65,37 58,633 Star Balance - Dominant Under 50 kg 10 649,40 58,359 ,541 ,591 --- Over 51 kg 30 553,23 60,268 Star Balance - NonDominant Under 50 kg 10 642,10 53,582 ,353 ,726 ---- Over 51 kg 30 548,20 58,437 p<0.05 level is significant. A t-test analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between participants' body weight and their performance in the back isometric and side bridge tests. According to the analysis results, significant differences were found at the p<0.05 level. It was determined that participants with a body weight of less than 50 kg had higher total scores in the back isometric and side bridge tests compared to those with a body weight of 51 kg or more. Additionally, when examining the relationship between participants' body weight and performance in the plank, sit-up, sit-and-reach, stork, and star balance tests, no significant differences were found at the p<0.05 level. Bağaçlı & Erçiş, 2025. International Journal of Health, Exercise, and Sport Sciences Vol 2, issue 2, June 2025 Page 105 of 109 Discussion Folk dances, beyond their cultural significance, have gained increasing attention as a form of physical activity that enhances motor functions such as balance, flexibility, and postural stability. Recent research has emphasized the potential of folk dances in improving neuromuscular coordination and functional movement patterns, making them an effective tool for both athletic performance and general physical health. Balance is a critical physical ability essential for maintaining stability during movement and is a key determinant of athletic performance and injury prevention (Shumway-Cook & Woollacott, 2017). Folk dances, with their rhythmic and repetitive movement patterns, engage multiple sensory and motor systems to enhance dynamic and static balance. Studies have shown that dance training significantly improves proprioception, the body's ability to perceive its position and movement in space (Golomer et al., 1999). Kirdişin (2010) reported that eight weeks of folk-dance training led to notable improvements in postural control and dynamic balance, particularly in movements requiring sudden shifts in the center of gravity. Core stability is pivotal in maintaining balance, as the core muscles provide structural support to the spine and lower extremities (Willardson, 2007). Folk dances incorporate a variety of weight-bearing movements, side lunges, and rotational patterns that actively recruit the core musculature. A comparative study by Zhang et al. (2008) found that dancers exhibited superior balance and postural stability compared to sedentary individuals, suggesting that folk dance training may be an effective alternative to conventional balance-training exercises. Flexibility, the range of motion around a joint, is a crucial component of overall physical fitness and injury prevention (Behm et al., 2016). Folk dances often include dynamic stretching elements that promote muscle elasticity and joint mobility. Korkmaz (2018) demonstrated that university students who participated in a 12-week folk dance program experienced significant improvements in hamstring and lower back flexibility, as measured by the sit-and-reach test. These findings align with previous studies on the role of dance in enhancing flexibility through sustained movement patterns that involve elongation and controlled stretching of muscle groups (Monteiro et al., 2017). The repetitive movements in folk dances, such as deep knee bends, lateral lunges, and rotational gestures, facilitate a more excellent joint range of motion without overstressing the musculoskeletal system. Increased flexibility is associated with a reduced risk of musculoskeletal injuries, particularly in the lower back and lower limbs (Morrin & Redding, 2013). Thus, incorporating folk dances into training regimens may serve as a preventive strategy for maintaining joint health and mitigating injury risks in physically active populations. The core musculature, consisting of the abdominals, obliques, lower back, and pelvic muscles, is integral to movement efficiency and athletic performance (Hibbs et al., 2008). Folk dances naturally integrate core engagement through movements requiring pelvic stabilization, weight transfers, and multi-directional agility. AsghariFar (2009) examined the effects of folk-dance training on core stabilization and agility compared to handball players. Although agility differences were observed, no significant variations were found in core strength, suggesting that folk dances effectively contribute to postural stability without compromising functional movement efficiency. Furthermore, core muscle activation is crucial in force transmission between the upper and lower body, making it essential for sports performance (Kibler et al., 2006). Given that folk dances emphasize