Motor planning and initiation

Motor planning and initiation refers to an individual's ability to physically plan and perform a motor task. It is the cognitive process of organizing and sequencing multiple body parts to achieve an intentional goal, and the physiological process of activating the body processes required to execute the planned task. Motor planning involves the detection and evaluation of environmental cues, the development of an appropriate plan of action and the integration of information from body functions needed for successful task performance. Motor initiation is the ability to generate and initiate purposeful movements. It is a form of self-regulation or volition that depends on the ability to consciously direct, monitor and control behaviour for purposeful purposes. The capacity to generate and initiate efficient movements is essential for motor learning and development, as well as for adaptive problem-solving behaviours in complex and changing environments. Subskills that are important to motor planning and initiation include sequencing, goal setting and organization. Sequencing involves breaking down a complex task into component steps and then linking those components to attain a desired goal. Goal setting involves developing strategies that set meaningful goals to achieve a desired task. Organization requires manipulation of the relevant components to develop efficient plans. Motor planning is an important skill for success in everyday activities such as performing complex sports tasks, using a computer mouse, or acquiring simple hand skills. Impaired motor planning and initiation can lead to poor motor coordination and inefficient and erratic performance. Difficulties with motor planning and initiation can be caused by developmental delays, stroke, traumatic brain injury, psychiatric illnesses, and degenerative neurological disorders. Interventions at a young age are particularly important as motor planning develops over time and is shaped by environmental factors.