Cross-Crawl Movements: Why They Matter for Kids and Adults

Some of the most important movements we do every day are also the most overlooked. Cross-crawl patterns—where one side of the body works in coordination with the opposite side—are foundational for brain and body health at every age.

These patterns begin in infancy with crawling (I wrote about why babies NEED to crawl in this blog post), but their benefits extend far beyond childhood.

What Are Cross-Crawl Patterns?

A cross-crawl pattern occurs when:

• The right arm moves with the left leg

• The left arm moves with the right leg

This type of movement requires communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain.

Common examples include crawling, walking, running, climbing and skating (come and join us for a family skate at Officer’s Square as part of our Winter Wellness series!)

Why Cross-Crawl Movements Benefit the Brain

Cross-crawl activities promote bilateral integration, helping the brain coordinate both sides of the body smoothly. This supports:

• Focus and attention

• Learning and memory

• Coordination and balance

• Emotional regulation

• Efficient movement

Benefits Across the Lifespan

For Kids

Regular cross-crawl movement supports:

• Motor development and postural strength

• Reading and writing

• Body awareness and confidence

• Regulation of energy and emotions

For Adults

Cross-crawl activities help:

• Improve balance and coordination

• Support spinal and joint health

• Enhance brain plasticity

• Reduce stress through nervous system regulation

Is Skating a Cross-Crawl Activity?

Ice skating, roller skating, and inline skating all use cross-crawl patterns through:

• Alternating leg push-off

• Opposite arm movement for balance

• Continuous weight shifting and core control

Simple Cross-Crawl Activities to Try

For Kids

• Crawling games and obstacle courses

• Bear or crab walks

• Marching with opposite arm and leg

• Swimming or climbing

• Dancing and skating

For Adults

• Walking or hiking with arm swing

• Cross-body strength exercises

• Crawling, marching on the spot

• Dancing and skating

The Takeaway

Cross-crawl patterns are essential for healthy brain–body communication—from infancy through adulthood. Whether through walking, crawling, dancing, or skating, these movements help the nervous system function more efficiently and support lifelong coordination, learning, and resilience.