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Comparing Performances of Fundamental Movement Skills and Basic Human Movements: a Pilot Study
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Comparing Performances of Fundamental Movement Skills and Basic Human Movements: a Pilot Study

Claire Tompsett, Brendan J Burkett and Mark McKean
Journal of Fitness Research, Vol.4(3), pp.13-25
2015
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Abstract

Human Movement and Sports Science FMS BHM physical activity physical education school children
Introduction: Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) are considered the most crucial element for lifelong habitual physical activity and sports competence. Fundamental Movement Skill assessment is prioritised in intervention strategies due to associations with lifelong habitual physical activity. Methods: This pilot study assessed the relationship between Basic Human Movements (BHM) and Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) in 103 Australian school children in three different year levels. Relationships between BHM, age, gender and physical activity (PA) was also evaluated. BHM (squat, lunge, push, pull, hinge, brace and rotation), are movement patterns that have both similar and unique characteristics working together to allow a person to interact with the common environment and were assessed using a newly developed criteria. FMS was calculated using the NSW curriculum 'Get Skilled: Get Active' and PA levels were attained from a self-reported PA recall questionnaire. Results: Basic Human Movements related to all FMS except static balance and vertical jump. Girls outperformed boys in both movements and FMS, contradicting previous studies. Children who accumulated ≥60 minute's physical activity per day scored better in exercise and skill assessments. Discussion: This study highlights the possibility that a movement based screening may detect movement deficiencies across a broad population of children which may inform physical education and sports assessment. Conclusions: Physical education teachers, sports coaches and strength and conditioning experts may use BHM as a reliable way to monitor and progress their athletes to more demanding exercises or downgrade to less challenging movements throughout maturity. Future validation of the BHM and refinement of FMS assessment criteria in is warranted.

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