Determinants of the Squatting Ability of Young Children: Its Relationships with the Age, Sex, Physique, and Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion

Abstract

[Purpose] To examine the squatting ability of young children and its relationships with the age, sex, physique, and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion. [Participants and Methods] The squatting ability of 166 healthy young children was evaluated, and its relationships with the age, sex, physique, and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion were analyzed. [Results] The number of those who were able to squat significantly increased with age. Furthermore, the rate of being able to squat was significantly higher among females than males. The squatting ability was not correlated with the obesity level or ankle dorsiflexion range of motion. [Conclusion] The results indicate that in addition to the physique and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, the influences of learning and experiences acquired with age also determine the squatting ability of young children.