Robert M. Malina - Movement proficiency in childhood: implications for physical activity and youth sport

摘要

Development of voluntary control of movement begins in infancy and progresses into childhood as the child attains postural, locomotor and prehensile control. With the refinement of walking, control of locomotor and manipulative abilities improves so that a considerable amount of independent action is possible. These basic movement patterns are the foundation upon which other movements and combinations of movements are subsequently developed and refined. Movement is the substrate of physical activity, and there is increasing interest in relationships between proficiency in basic movement skills and habitual physical activity. Evidence indicates that motor skill instructional and physical activity interventions are associated with improvements in basic movement skills in children. By inference, improving the motor proficiency of young children has the potential to enhance levels of habitual physical activity. Motor coordination is also a predictor of physical activity during middle childhood. The teaching of skills, rules and strategies is an objective of youth sport and talent development programs. Observations would suggest that this objective is generally achieved, but specific evidence for participants in youth sports is limited. Individual differences are considerable and are often influenced by the quality of coaching/instruction. Unfortunately, relatively more emphasis is given to the talented few in contrast to the majority of youth participants.