A preliminary study on gross motor performance of Hong Kong children aged 6-8 years

Gross motor development is a critical component of elementary school physical education programs. This is also the foundation for active participation in later childhood and adult physical activities. This study aims to : (1) collect preliminary data on Hong Kong children's gross motor performance; (2) analyze Hong Kong Children's gross motor proficiency; and (3) introduce a gross motor test instrument to Hong Kong PE teachers. The Test of Gross Motor Development (Second Edition) (TGMD-2) (Ulrich, 2000) was chosen as the test instrument in this project. There were 15 girls and 15 boys selected for each age interval: 6-6 to 6-11, 7-6 to 7-11 and 8-0 to 8-11. Only 27.6% of the participants achieved the average level. 27.6% and 40% of them were below average and poor, respectively. No significant sex differences in the level of fundamental gross motor skills development. However, age differences were found in stationary dribble and overhand throw, 8 years old children got higher successful rate in the mature form of the two skills. Copyright © 2004 Department of Physical Education, Hong Kong Baptist University.