title: Development of Overarm Throwing Technique Reflects Throwing Ability during Childhood.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  It is important to acquire fundamental movement skills during childhood. Throwing is a representative manipulative skill required for various intrinsic factors. However, the relationship between intrinsic factors and throwing ability in childhood is unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate intrinsic factors related to the ball throwing distance of Japanese elementary school children.
  
  
  METHODS
  Japanese elementary school children from grades 1-6 (aged 6-12 years; n=112) participated in this study. The main outcome was throwing ability, which was measured as the ball throwing distance. We measured five general anthropometric parameters, seven physical fitness parameters, and the Roberton's developmental sequence for all subjects. The relationships between the throwing ability and the 13 parameters were analysed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The Roberton's developmental sequence was the best predictor of ball throwing distance (r=0.80, p≤0.01). The best multiple regression model, which included sex, handgrip strength, shuttle run test, and the Roberton's developmental sequence, accounted for 81% of the total variance.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The development of correct throwing technique reflects throwing abilities in childhood. In addition to the throwing sequence, enhancement of grip strength and aerobic capacity are also required for children's throwing ability.
authors.affiliation: Health Science University.
authors.forename: Tatsuya
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Kasuyama
authors.affiliation: Kawaguchi Elementary School.
authors.forename: Ikuo
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Mutou
authors.affiliation: Kawaguchi Elementary School.
authors.forename: Hitoshi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Sasamoto
keywords: Developmental kinesiology; Fundamental movement skill; Physical fitness