Jurak, Gregor; Strel, Janko; Kova?, Marjeta - Changes in the latent structure of motor space of boys during puberty

摘要

We analysed the latent structure of the motor space of boys at the ages of 11, 13, 15 and 17. The transversal study was carried out on a representative sample of 517 participants within the larger research work of Strel et al. (1996). Motor abilities were assessed on the basis of 26 tests covering all hypothetical motor dimensions. The latent structure was studied using the classic procedures of factor analysis. We found differences in the latent structure of motor space in different age periods. In the case of younger individuals who were tested, achievements depended on the simultaneous impact of various functional mechanisms and therefore the structure of latent space is less precisely defined. Motor abilities gradually differentiate as the age increases. At the age of 15 a repercussion of movement patterns is noticeable. The sensitivity of that age period demands that sports teachers take a closer look at the physical and motor development of young people and tailor exercises to personal development.