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Association Between Motor Skills and Musculoskeletal Physical Fitness Among Preschoolers

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Abstract

Objective

Previous work is conflicted regarding the relationship between motor skill development and physical activity. One potential explanation for this equivocality is the difficulty and lack of precision in physical activity measurement, particularly within preschool populations. Our exploration of plank performance as a proxy measure for fitness addresses a void in the literature, as few studies have investigated the role of motor skill development on fitness. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential relationship between motor skill level and musculoskeletal endurance (via the plank test).

Methods

Data from the 2012 National Youth Fitness Survey were used, which included 224 preschool-aged children (3–5 years). Motor skill level was assessed from the Test of Gross Motor Development-Second Edition (TGMD2). Motor skill parameters included general motor skills, locomotor skills, and object control skills.

Results

Within this nationally representative sample of preschoolers, increased motor skills were positively associated with plank performance [General Motor Skills (β = 0.45; 95% CI 0.31–0.59), locomotor skills (β = 1.88; 95% CI 1.15–2.61), and object control skills (β = 2.05; 95% CI 1.11–2.98)].

Conclusion

Motor skill level in this national preschool sample was associated with musculoskeletal endurance. Thus, future interventions should aim to develop and refine motor skills among preschoolers.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Physical Activity Epidemiology Laboratory, Exercise Psychology Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, 38677, USA

    Emily Frith

  2. Jackson Heart Study Vanguard Center of Oxford, Physical Activity Epidemiology Laboratory, Exercise Psychology Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, School of Applied Sciences, The University of Mississippi, 229 Turner Center, University, MS, 38677, USA

    Paul D. Loprinzi

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  1. Emily Frith
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  2. Paul D. Loprinzi
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Correspondence to Paul D. Loprinzi.

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Frith, E., Loprinzi, P.D. Association Between Motor Skills and Musculoskeletal Physical Fitness Among Preschoolers. Matern Child Health J 23, 1003–1007 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-019-02753-0

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