Home / Health / Study: Pandemic Hit Children's Movement Abilities
Study: Pandemic Hit Children's Movement Abilities
8 Feb
Summary
- Children's motor skills declined significantly post-COVID-19 restrictions.
- Lockdowns and reduced activity impacted balance, coordination, and object manipulation.
- Declines were most pronounced in younger children and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
A comprehensive analysis of over 278,000 children and young people aged three to 19 has identified a consistent decline in motor competence following COVID-19 restrictions. Published in the Journal of Sport Sciences, the study examined changes in movement skills, including balance, coordination, and object manipulation, before and after lockdowns.
Researchers observed small to moderate reductions across Europe, Asia, and South America, with the most significant declines noted in overall ability and among children from lower socio-economic backgrounds. These pandemic-accelerated trends were more severe than gradual pre-existing declines in motor skills. While some recovery has been observed, the findings suggest a substantial negative impact on physical fitness and participation in physical activity.
