Patterns of limb laterality and gross-motor agility in children

This study examined the association of nine patterns of limb preference (combination hand/foot), described as congruent or cross-lateral, with gross-motor agility of 302 4- to 6-yr-old boys. Based on contemporary reports of handedness and motor coordination, it was hypothesized that persons exhibiting a right-hand/foot congruent pattern would outperform their peers in other groups. However, analyses indicated no significant differences on total motor performance between groups with different limb patterns. Further nonsupport of the hypothesis was evident since the best performance was exhibited by the mixed-hand/left-foot group. In view of past studies and these results, it appears that additional inquiry is warranted before any consensus regarding the association between limb laterality and motor coordination can be established.