Gross motor index and physical fitness among preschoolers: a cross-sectional study in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Putrajaya

Authors

  • Nurhidayah Yaakop Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia
  • Tan De Hui Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Malaysia
  • Shamsulariffin Samsudin Faculty of Education Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia
  • Borhannudin Abdullah Faculty of Education Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia
  • Cassendra Anak Gilbert Faculty of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Universiti Malaya, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v82.119213

Keywords:

fundamental movement skills, gross motor index, physical fitness, preschool children, education

Abstract

Introduction: Gross Motor Index is essential in children’s physical development. However, there is limited evidence on the relationship of physical fitness with Gross Motor Index among preschool children in Malaysia.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship of Gross Motor Index with physical fitness among preschool children in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Putrajaya.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study involved 104 5 and 6-year-old preschool children who were assessed using the Test of Gross Motor Development – 3rd Edition (TGMD-3) to measure their Fundamental Movement Skills. Statistical analysis such as independent sample t-test, general linear model analysis, and Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients were used. Significant value was set as p < 0.05.

Result: Most of the preschool children were classified as borderline or delayed for the GMI (59.6%). Besides, girls had higher GMI scores than boys (76.06±6.82 vs 71.98±5.74, p<0.001). There was no significant association between GMI and physical fitness (p>0.05). Further analysis revealed that the 15-meter obstacle run demonstrated a significant correlation with locomotor skills (r=-0.301, p=0.003), whereas handgrip strength showed correlation with both locomotor skills (r=0.207, p=0.043), and ball control skills (r=0.234, p=0.038).

Discussion: This study showed that although there was no significant association of GMI with physical fitness overall, specific physical fitness, such as 15-meter obstacle run and handgrip strength, plays a crucial role in children’s Fundamental Movement Skills.

Conclusion: In conclusion, future interventions should be focused on specific physical fitness development to support GMI development among preschool children.

Author Biographies

  • Nurhidayah Yaakop, Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia

    Dr. Nurhidayah Yaakop is a Senior Lecturer in the field of Physical Education and Sports Studies. She is actively involved in teaching, research, and academic supervision. Her areas of expertise include physical education, sports training, and curriculum development. She is committed to enhancing students’ learning experiences and contributing to the advancement of sports education.

  • Tan De Hui, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Malaysia

    A Postgraduate Student in Nutrition and Community Health graduate from Universiti Putra Malaysia.

  • Shamsulariffin Samsudin, Faculty of Education Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia

    Dr. Shamsulariffin Samsudin is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Sports Studies, Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia. His research interests include sports science, training methodology, and physical education. He is actively involved in teaching, research, and the development of training modules for educators and students in the field of sport and exercise.

  • Borhannudin Abdullah, Faculty of Education Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia

    Dr. Borhannudin Abdullah is a Senior Lecturer in the field of Physical Education and Sports Studies. He is actively engaged in teaching, research, and academic supervision. His research interests include sports science, training methods, and physical performance. He is committed to advancing knowledge and practice in sports and exercise education.

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Published

28-05-2026

Issue

Vol. 82 (2026)

Section

Original Research Article

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Copyright (c) 2026 Nurhidayah Yaakop, Tan De Hui, Shamsulariffin Samsudin, Borhannudin Abdullah, Cassendra Anak Gilbert

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How to Cite

Yaakop, N., De Hui, T., Samsudin, S., Abdullah, B., & Gilbert, C. A. (2026). Gross motor index and physical fitness among preschoolers: a cross-sectional study in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Putrajaya. Retos, 82, 233-245. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v82.119213