Fleishman's Physical Proficiency vs. Perceptual Motor Abilities
Let's dive into one of the most fascinating frameworks for understanding athletic abilities! Fleishman's taxonomy breaks down human movement capabilities into two main categories that help us understand what makes athletes tick.
Physical Proficiency Abilities (Physical Factors)
Physical proficiency abilities are the raw, measurable physical qualities that form the foundation of movement:
1. Explosive Strength
- The ability to exert maximum force in one explosive act
A basketball player's vertical jump or a sprinter's start from blocks
2. Static Strength
- The ability to exert force against external objects
A gymnast holding an iron cross position
3. Dynamic Strength
- The ability to exert muscular force repeatedly
Performing multiple push-ups or chin-ups
4. Trunk Strength
- Core muscle power and endurance
A rower's ability to maintain proper form throughout a race
5. Extent Flexibility
- Range of motion in joints and muscles
A gymnast's ability to perform splits
6. Speed
Perceptual Motor Abilities (Psychomotor Factors)
These abilities involve the integration of sensory input with motor output:
1. Response Orientation
- Quick decision-making in response to changing situations
A tennis player adjusting to different types of serves
2. Reaction Time
- Speed of response to a stimulus
A sprinter responding to the starting gun
3. Speed of Arm Movement
- Rapid arm movements independent of accuracy
A boxer throwing quick combinations
4. Control Precision
- Fine, controlled adjustments in motor movements
An archer maintaining steady aim
5. Multi-limb Coordination
- Coordinating multiple body parts simultaneously
A swimmer coordinating arms and legs during different strokes
TipWhen analyzing an athlete's performance, consider both categories as they often work together to produce skilled movement.
Key Distinctions
The main differences between these categories are:
Nature of Ability
- Physical Proficiency: Raw physical capabilities
- Perceptual Motor: Integration of mental processing with movement
Measurement
- Physical Proficiency: Can be directly measured (weight lifted, distance jumped)
- Perceptual Motor: Often measured through performance outcomes
Training Focus
- Physical Proficiency: Emphasizes physical conditioning
- Perceptual Motor: Requires skill-specific practice and cognitive engagement
Don't make the mistake of training these abilities in isolation - successful athletes need both physical proficiency and perceptual motor abilities working together.
NoteWhile these categories are distinct, they're highly interconnected in real-world performance. An athlete needs both to excel in their sport.
