Outcome and Process in Motor Performance: A Comparison of Jumping by Typically Developing Children and Those with Low Motor Proficiency

Abstract

The motivation for this study was to explore a conceptual framework to understand the outcomes and processes of motor performance in children. Vertical jumping, a fundamental movement skill, was used to compare children (ages 6–12 years) who were typically developing (TD) and those identified as having low motor proficiency (LMP). Jumps were analysed using force plate and 2D kinematic data. The hierarchal framework was applied starting with jump height and descending to the spatial and timing data that describe the global and local coordination processes. Children with LMP jumped lower than their TD peers. Of most interest for understanding the coordination, peak VCOM occurred earlier in the jumping movement for the LMP group. This is interpreted as coordination error and supported by reduced shank angular velocity immediately prior to take-off. These findings suggest a potential value for the vertical jump as a means for identifying coordination dysfunction in children.

Keywords:

• coordination assessment
• kinetic analysis
• kinematic analysis
• underlying motor processes
• fundamental movement skill