10 Health Benefits of Fundamental Movement Skills in Children and Adolescents

10 Health Benefits of Fundamental Movement Skills in Children and Adolescents

When children learn to run, jump, catch, and balance, they’re doing far more than just playing—they’re building the foundation for lifelong health and well-being.

Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) are the basic movements that underlie all physical activity. These include:

• Locomotor skills (e.g., running, hopping, skipping)

• Object control or manipulative skills (e.g., throwing, catching, kicking)

• Stability skills (e.g., balancing, twisting, turning)

Research shows that when children become competent in these skills, they are more likely to lead physically active, healthy lives. Here are 10 proven benefits of FMS proficiency in children and adolescents.

1. Increased Physical Activity Levels

Children who develop strong movement skills are more confident in their bodies, which makes them more likely to enjoy and participate in physical activity. Proficiency in FMS removes the barriers that often make kids feel left out or insecure in sports and games.

2. Improved Cardiorespiratory Fitness (CRF)

When children master activities like running or skipping, they naturally strengthen their heart and lungs. FMS-focused play builds endurance and improves overall stamina—key components of cardio fitness.

3. Healthy Weight Management

Studies show a clear inverse relationship between FMS competency and excess weight gain. Active children with higher movement skill levels are more likely to maintain a healthy weight, reducing their risk for obesity and related conditions.

4. Enhanced Muscular Strength and Fitness

FMS help children develop both upper and lower body strength. Skills like throwing, climbing, or hopping contribute to muscle tone, coordination, and endurance—all essential for everyday tasks and long-term physical development.

5. Reduced Sedentary Behavior

Children who feel confident in their movement are less likely to spend long hours in front of screens. They are more motivated to engage in movement-based play, outdoor games, and active hobbies.

6. Boosted Self-Esteem and Confidence

There’s a strong link between physical skill competence and self-worth. When children succeed in movement-based tasks, it builds their self-esteem and helps them feel good about their bodies and abilities.

7. Greater Perceived Physical Competence

FMS-competent children are more likely to view themselves as “sporty” or physically capable. This mindset not only influences current activity levels but also predicts future participation in sports and fitness.

8. Improved Flexibility and Functional Mobility

While this area needs further study, many movement-rich programs report improved flexibility and body control in children who practice FMS regularly—particularly in balancing and stretching activities.

9. Better Social Interaction and Peer Engagement

Confident movers are more willing to take part in group games and team sports. This promotes teamwork, cooperation, and leadership skills—social benefits that are just as important as physical ones.

10. A Foundation for Lifelong Activity and Wellness

Perhaps most importantly, FMS lay the groundwork for an active lifestyle. When children feel capable in their movements, they’re more likely to stay active throughout adolescence and adulthood.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a parent, educator, or early childhood professional, it’s important to prioritize the development of fundamental movement skills. These core skills aren’t just about physical education—they’re a public health investment in children’s physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Explore Our Kids in Action ProgramAt Active Education, we’re passionate about getting young children moving. Our “Kids in Action” program helps children under 7 master their fundamental movement skills through fun, play-based ball skills activities designed for nursery schools and ECD centres.

👉 Want to bring Kids in Action to your school?Contact us today to join our growing community of movement champions.