Physical fitness differences in children with and without motor learning difficulties

Children with motor learning difficulties (MLD) tend to be less physically active than theircoordinated peers and one likely consequence is a reduced level of physical fitness. In this study,52 children with MLD, aged 5 to 8 years, were compared to 52 age- and gender-matched controlchildren across a range of health and skill related fitness components. Analyses of variance revealedsignificantly lower scores in the group with MLD on the tests for cardiorespiratory endurance,flexibility, abdominal strength, speed and power than the control group. Furthermore, the groupwith MLD had a significantly higher Body Mass Index (BMI). These findings have implications foreducators and allied health professionals working with this age group. Programmes need to teachchildren with movement difficulties to perform tasks used in fitness assessment and also to work onthe development of physical fitness.