What are complex motor skills?

Complex motor skills involve the integration of both fine and gross motor skills, which are essential for executing tasks that require a higher level of coordination and precision. These skills are often utilized in activities that demand both large muscle groups and coordinated, smaller movements. This might include actions like typing, playing a musical instrument, or engaging in sports where a combination of precision and strength is necessary.

Understanding the distinction between gross and fine motor skills helps clarify why this answer is correct. Gross motor skills involve large muscle movements necessary for activities like running or jumping, while fine motor skills pertain to smaller, more precise movements, such as those needed for writing or using utensils. When these types of movements are combined—as they are in complex motor skills—they allow for more sophisticated activities that require timing, hand-eye coordination, and intricate body movements.