Authors:
Pradeep Kumar, R. Ramakrishnan
Addresses:
Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (Deemed to be University), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
This study examined locomotor and ball skill competence in 6–8-year-olds in Karnataka, India, using the Test of Gross Motor Development–Third Edition. Fundamental motor skills (FMS) are essential for physical literacy and lifelong physical activity. A school-based cross-sectional descriptive design was used. In chosen schools, 100 youngsters (50 boys, 50 girls; mean age 6.93 ± 0.74 years) were tested. Six locomotor and seven ball TGMD 3 skills were scored twice per child. Criterion-referenced locomotor, ball skill, and TGMD 3 scores. Performance and gender differences were assessed using descriptive statistics and independent t-tests. Children had intermediate motor skill proficiency, with a mean TGMD 3 score of 60.3 ± 6.62 (range 49-76). Locomotor subscale scores averaged 28.7 ± 4.70 (17-40), whereas ball skill scores averaged 31.6 ± 4.66 (18-44). Sprinting and galloping were better than dribbling and catching. Males outperformed females in ball skills (32.9 ± 4.13 vs 30.9 ± 4.77; p = 0.027), but there were no significant differences in locomotor skills. Locomotor strengths and ball skills issues characterise FMS competency in 6–8-year-olds. Gender disparities in object control demand special treatment. Schools should provide systematic skill development, equitable participation, and teacher training to increase motor competence, physical literacy, and lifetime physical activity.
Keywords: TGMD 3 scores; Fundamental Motor Skills; Physical Literacy; Locomotor Skills; Ball Skills; Early Childhood; Motor Development; Locomotor Strength; Gross Motor Development.
Received on: 08/08/2024, Revised on: 27/10/2024, Accepted on: 10/01/2025, Published on: 03/06/2026
DOI: 10.64091/ATITL.2026.000296
AVE Trends in Intelligent Techno Learning, 2026 Vol. 3 No. 1 , Pages: 1-13