The importance of jumping, and how it relates to the development of later skills such as strength and balance. By Dr Lala Manners

The sensation of moving up and down is a very common and early physical experience as babies are lifted in the air, or bounced on knees. This movement is usually rhythmical, joyful and energetic, informing the initial sensation of jumping long before the actual skill is acquired.

Interestingly, the preliminary stages of jumping and the form it often takes in the elderly look very similar, as children have yet to gain the strength and skill needed, and the elderly are losing both; but each age group can equally enjoy it. In early childhood, jumping is always a favourite activity and plays a vital role in developing later skills such as dance, gymnastics and many other sports.

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