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Children with hearing loss demonstrate significantly lower physical fitness in strength, agility, speed, and balanceChildren with Hearing Loss Show Lower Physical Fitness Levels

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Key Takeaway
Recognize that children with hearing loss show significantly lower strength, agility, speed, and balance than peers.

This meta-analysis synthesized data from 5 observational studies involving 404 children and adolescents with hearing loss to evaluate physical fitness compared to hearing peers. The analysis focused on four primary components of physical fitness: strength, agility, speed, and balance.

The synthesis revealed that children with hearing loss have significantly lower physical fitness levels than their hearing peers. The pooled effect size for these differences was -2.35 (95% CI: -3.34 to -1.37). These findings indicate a consistent trend of diminished physical performance across all measured domains in the hearing loss population.

Because the underlying data are from observational studies, the results indicate an association between hearing loss and lower fitness rather than a direct causal link. The authors suggest these findings have practical implications for physical education planning. Clinicians and educators may need to implement inclusive and adapted strategies to support the specific needs of children with hearing loss in physical activities.

A review of several studies involving 404 children and adolescents found that those with hearing loss often have lower physical fitness. The researchers looked at specific areas like strength, agility, speed, and balance. They found significant differences when comparing these children to their peers who do not have hearing loss.

These results suggest that hearing loss may be linked to lower physical performance in young people. Because the data comes from observational studies, it shows a link between the two conditions rather than proving one caused the other. The findings are based on a small number of studies, so more research is needed to understand why these differences occur.

For parents and educators, this information highlights the importance of tailored physical education. Since children with hearing loss may face different physical challenges, inclusive and adapted activities can help them stay active. These results suggest that fitness programs should be carefully planned to meet the specific needs of every student.

What this means for you:
Children with hearing loss show lower levels of strength and agility compared to their peers without hearing loss.

Study Details

Study typeMeta analysis
Sample sizen = 404
EvidenceLevel 1
PublishedJun 2026
View Original Abstract ↓
Background: Childhood and adolescent hearing loss affects not only communication and cognitive development but also motor skills and school participation. Consequently, it generates inequalities in learning and educational inclusion. Nevertheless, no systematic review has yet analyzed these differences from an inclusive education perspective. Methods: A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO. Observational studies comparing physical fitness between children and adolescents with hearing loss and their hearing peers were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle--Ottawa Scale, and standardized effect sizes were calculated with a random-effects model. Results: Five studies (n=404) were analyzed. Findings revealed significant differences in strength, agility, speed, and balance. Moreover, the meta-analysis showed a large standardized effect favoring hearing children (ES=-2.35; 95% CI: -3.34 to -1.37). Conclusions: Children and adolescents with hearing loss present significantly lower physical fitness, which may affect the planning of physical education activities if their capacities are misinterpreted. Implementing inclusive and adapted strategies within the school curriculum is essential to ensure equal opportunities, improve physical fitness, and promote educational equity.
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