This study aimed to identify differences in dynamic balance ability in preschool children based on gender and age as evaluated by using the Soft Balance Bar and examining relationships of dynamic balance ability and various motor abilities. The subjects were 138 boys and 114 girls aged 3 to 6. Dynamic balance ability was evaluated based on the point where the participants fell off while walking on the Soft Balance Bar consisting of five different widths. The subjects performed fundamental motor ability tests (20 meter sprint, standing broad jump, tennis-ball throw, 5 meter dash, zigzag run, and repeated sideways jumps) after the balance test. The reliability of the dynamic balance test was high. There were significant gender and age differences in the achievement rates of the balance test. Additionally, the dynamic balance ability tests showed significant correlations with various motor abilities. In conclusion, the reliability of the dynamic balance test using the Soft Balance Bar was high, and this test may be useful to assess the development of dynamic balance ability in preschool children.
