Psychomotor learning in control of locomotion - Abstract

Since vision is one of the most important sensory systems called upon for locomotion because it provides information not only about the environment, but also about posture and movement of corporal segments, this study analyzed the effects of a psychomotor training program on the control of locomotion with six children with low vision. Thus, an assessment of locomotion during obstacle avoidance with different obstacle heights was performed based on the qualitative parameters: posture / balance / direction / velocity / visual contact with the obstacle / error on the task, and on kinematics parameters collected via motion analysis system (Peak Motus – 7.0 – Vicon Peak) to assess: the distance of the base foot in relation to obstacle position / the maximum elevation of the knee / the height of the foot in relation to obstacle height. The parameters were again analyzed after the training program, showing evidence of the positive effect of both the strategy of approximation and the strategy of going over the obstacle. On approximation, the walking velocity became more stable and the subjects walked straighter. During obstacle crossing, there was less contact between the foot and the obstacle. These results will help to understand the importance of psychomotor learning in educational programs, especially on adapted physical education, so as to contribute to better quality of life for children with low vision.