Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
What is very evident here is that although arms may provide additional
secondary action that assists a regular walk, walking is not dependent on the
action of a person's arms. This is clearly shown in our example.
A Child Walk
The development of a child's walking skills covers an extended period
beginning around 6 months, when a baby is able to roll over onto its belly and
sit up unaided. Around 9 months the baby is able to crawl. Between 9 months
and 1 year she is able to stand unsupported and may be taking a few tentative
steps before falling down, usually with a bit of a bump on the behind. By
18 months children have begun to walk around, though at this stage they
hold their feet wide apart to achieve a rather uncertain balance, giving the
legs a bowed appearance. As the child gains more confidence and begins to
master balance, this gap between the feet gradually diminishes with time
until the feet move closer together and the legs are straightened. The manner
of a young child's walk changes through these early years and remains
rather distinct from that of an adult. Generally, it appears to be very much
more awkward than an adult walk. Initially a child might hold out his hands
sideways, away from his body, along the coronal or lateral plane as an aid to
balance.
FIG 5.39
A child's walk action.
