Motor abilities of children:: Abilities of coordination and balance:: examination of differences between children of different social groups

The opportunity for motor activity for children is highly limited in cities. Therefore the wholesome physiological and psychological development of children is impaired. The purpose of this study was to examine the motor abilities of children. 163 Children of two different districts in a larger city were tested. Motor abilities (KTK = Test of Coordination in Children) and static balance parameters (pressure distribution) were determined. The parameters can be correlated to sports activities of children as well as to differences in social settings. It was shown, that motor abilities overall have not changed significantly in the last 25 years. Substantial differences concerning the social background could be revealed: Children with poor social background are obviously more impaired in their motor abilities (coordination p < .0001 and balance p < .05). Furthermore, the results show a highly positive relationship between motor activity and the tested parameters. Children who are members of sports clubs show better results (p < .0001). It has been shown that limited motor activity of children effects basic physiological function in a negative way. Therefore impaired motor abilities and health are in interaction. For maintaining or recovering health in children it is essential to provide for prevention especially for children with poor social background.