Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 18, 2026

Physical Activity Measurement in Children Accepting Table Tennis Training
06:51

Physical Activity Measurement in Children Accepting Table Tennis Training

Published on: July 27, 2022

Health-related physical fitness in Dutch children with developmental coordination disorder

Frouwien D van der Hoek1, Ilse Stuive, Heleen A Reinders-Messelink

  • 1Center for Rehabilitation, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. f.d.van.der.hoek@cvr.umcg.nl

Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics : JDBP
|October 3, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD) have lower cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength compared to typically developing children (TDC). Poor balance is linked to reduced cardiorespiratory fitness in these children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric physical therapy
  • Developmental pediatrics
  • Exercise science

Background:

  • Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) affects motor skills in children.
  • Health-related physical fitness components are crucial for overall child development.
  • Limited research exists on the physical fitness of children with DCD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Compare health-related physical fitness between Dutch children with DCD and typically developing children (TDC).
  • Investigate the relationship between motor performance issues and physical fitness in children with DCD.

Main Methods:

  • A multicenter case-control study involved 38 children with DCD (ages 7-12) and matched TDC.
  • Motor coordination was assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children.
  • Health-related physical fitness included cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and BMI.

Main Results:

  • Children with DCD exhibited significantly lower cardiorespiratory fitness (6.7% lower maximal capacity).
  • Muscle strength was significantly reduced in DCD children, particularly elbow and knee flexion.
  • A strong negative association was observed between cardiorespiratory fitness and balance performance.

Conclusions:

  • Children with DCD demonstrate poorer cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength than TDC.
  • These findings highlight the need to assess and train cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength in children with DCD.
  • Interventions should complement motor coordination training with fitness-focused exercises.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy09:18

Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Published on: January 12, 2019

Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools11:29

Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools

Published on: June 20, 2020

Related Concept Videos

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Learning Disabilities01:25

Learning Disabilities

Learning disabilities are cognitive disorders caused by neurological impairments that affect cognitive functions like language and reading, without indicating overall intellectual or developmental challenges. These disabilities differ from global intellectual or developmental disabilities as they are limited to distinct cognitive functions. Common learning disabilities include dysgraphia, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, each of which impacts unique aspects of learning.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...