Teenage Boys Get Clumsy Because Of Brain Coping With Growth Spurts

Clumsiness in teenage boys can be attributed to their brains, according to a new study. Specifically, the clumsiness stems from their brains having to keep up with their growth spurts.

"Boys whose growth is steadier and less rapid are often able to remain more coordinated than their fast-growing peers," Wired reported. The new study was conducted by researchers from the University of Bologna and published in Biomedical Engineering Online.

Awkward Movements For Those With Growth Spurts

The researchers analyzed how 88 15-year-old teenage boys moved, according to The Sun. The results revealed that teenage boys who increased in height by three centimeters in three months had more awkward movements.

There were 19 boys who grew by three centimeters in three months. All boys had sensors in their lower legs and back that tracked their movement as they walked up and down a ten-meter corridor.

Researchers looked into balance, smooth walking ability and stride regularity. A mental arithmetic task was also done by the teenage boys while they were walking.

Smooth Movements For Those Without Growth Spurts

According to BBC, those who did not have a growth spurt had more smooth walking movements. Their walking stride was also more regular compared to those who experienced a growth spurt.

"A sudden increase in height affects the body's ability to control established motor skills, such as walking," lead author Dr. Maria Cristina said. Cristina added that the body needs time to adjust after a growth spurt, which may result in awkward walking.

It was said that there might be other factors that influence the clumsiness of teenage boys. Socioemotional changes were cited as an example. Understanding developments in the control of movement was also cited as an important aspect to having effective therapies for people with cognitive of physical impairments.

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