LEARN: Improving Gross Motor Coordination (for Instructors/Coaches)

Learning Guide for Improving Gross Motor Coordination

• Practice multi-directional forms of locomotor skills (walking, crawling, running, jumping, and skipping)

• Present single leg balancing and stabilizing exercises

• Mirror each other’s movements (mime movement)

• Start or finish exercises in new positions (start sprints from stomach or one knee)

• Challenge participants to use reciprocal movements (right hand circles forward, left backwards)

• Engage in simultaneous arm and leg movements

• Use 180 or 360 degree turns while simultaneously completing a particular exercise

• Use balance beams, yoga blocks, and other equipment to set up an obstacle course

• Incorporate a variety of bilateral coordination exercises (both symmetrical and asymmetrical) into training routine