Gender and Age Differences in Toe Muscle Strength in Childhood and the Relationship between Toe Muscle Strength and Basic Motor Skills

In this study, we examined gender differences and age-related changes in toe muscle strength in childhood as well as the relationship between toe muscle strength and basic motor skills. The subjects included 288 children aged between 6 and 10 years who were enrolled in elementary school. Measurements were conducted for toe muscle strength, long-distance throw, 50 m running time, and standing long jump distance. Toe muscle strength develops with age throughout childhood; no differences were observed in toe muscle strength between girls and boys; however, a significant correlation was observed between toe muscle strength and each of long-distance throw, 50 m running time, and standing long jump distance. There was also a significant partial correlation (eliminating the influence of age) between toe muscle strength and long-throw distance, 50 m running time, and standing long-jump distance for both boys and girls. The results indicate that toe muscle strength tends to develop with age, but there are no gender differences. Results also suggested that toe muscle strength is significantly related to basic motor skills.