Human interlimb coordination: the first 6 months of independent walking.

The organization of interlimb coordination was studied in newly walking infants with and without support and in infants who had been walking 0.5, 1, 3, and 6 months. Analysis of the temporal and distance phase relationships between the limbs revealed that newly walking infants exhibit interlimb coordination similar to that of mature walkers. The coupling between the limbs, however, is loosely constrained, approaching adult-like consistency after 3 months of walking. Providing support for the newly walking infant afforded a more consistent, mature coordination suggesting that neuromuscular development is in advance of its ability to function in the physical world.