While enjoying sports, some people feel that they have had poor motor skills since childhood, or believe that they will no longer improve once they become adults.
It is true that the nervous system has periods of rapid development, and as explained in the "developmental curve" by American physician Scammon, it grows significantly during childhood.
However, what is generally referred to as "motor nerves" does not refer to the "nerves themselves," but rather to "motor ability," which includes the power to move the body efficiently.
Athletic ability is not determined solely by motor skills; many other factors are involved, including muscle strength, flexibility, and experience.
Therefore, the peak will come after adulthood, but it is still possible to improve your skills now through practice and habit.
In this column, we will explain the concepts behind peak neurodevelopment and motor skills, including research.
Neurotypical characteristics and golden ages in Scammon's developmental curve
Rapid growth from birth to age 5
Scammon's developmental curve is divided into four types: general, neurotypical, lymphatic, and reproductive. The neurotypical brain is about 25% of the adult brain size at birth, but grows rapidly, reaching 50% by age 2 and 90% by age 6.
Almost complete between 6 and 12 years old
The nervous system undergoes significant development before entering elementary school, approaching adult levels around the age of 12. This period is known as the "golden age," when it is important to master basic movements such as running and jumping, and it is believed that a lack of experience will affect later acquisition of these movements.
〇Is it too late once you become an adult?
Although the nervous system develops during childhood, it does not alone determine motor skills.
Muscles and bones begin to develop after puberty, reaching their peak between the ages of 18 and 26, while endurance, technique, tactical understanding, and mental strength are all comprehensive abilities that can be honed even in adulthood.
〇The peak of athletic ability varies depending on age and type of sport
- Sprinting and gymnastics: Peak around age 20
- Tennis: Peaks around age 25-30
- Golf: Peaks around age 30-35
In other words, the "age range" and "manifestation" of the peak vary greatly depending on the characteristics of the sport and individual differences.
〇Does it just continue to decline after the peak?
The answer is "NO." Physical function declines with age, but the rate at which this decline occurs varies greatly depending on your lifestyle.
- People who exercise regularly can maintain their fitness into their 40s and beyond (Sholeh et al. 2022)
- Even older people can learn new movements with practice (Seidler et al. 2007)
The peak is only a guideline, and there is still room for growth after that.
Summary
Children's motor skills reach adult levels around the age of 12, but athletic ability is a comprehensive combination of physical strength, technique, and psychology.
Children's experiences serve as a foundation, but even as adults, they can continue to hone their strength, endurance, technique, and tactical understanding.
Even after you're past your golden age of athletic ability, sports can help you improve your athletic ability through effort and habit.
Keep practicing steadily and have fun playing sports!
Author
Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic Physical Therapist Tomonori Ishizuka
Supervision
Dr. Yasushi Sera, Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic
Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic