Impact of the Run, Jump, Throw Program on Fundamental Motor Skills in School-Aged Children

Abstract

Fundamental motor skills and physical activity are essential in the health and well-being of children, building the structural framework for future health and wellness. The Run-Jump-Throw Program targets fundamental motor skills in school aged children. A six-week intervention using the Run-Jump-Throw program was implemented in children kindergarten through 5 th grades to increase fundamental motor skills/physical activity. Students (n=135) participated in a 30-minute Run-Jump-Throw program once a week for six weeks. Portions of the BruininksOseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency Edition 2 (BOT-2) were used to assess baseline and post intervention outcomes. Statistically significant improvements were found for the object control (catching and throwing), standing long jump, and running speed and agility skills. Sexdifferences were found for standing long jump,and catching and throwing. Short term participation in structured programs, like the Run-Jump-Throw Program, can improve the fundamental motor skills in school-age-children.