Hurdle Step Movement PatternPURPOSEThe Hurdle Step pattern is an integral part of locomotion and acceleration. Although we do not step to this levelin most activities, the hurdle step will expose compensation or asymmetry in stepping functions. The hurdle step testchallenges the body’s step and stride mechanics while testing stability and control in a single stance.The movement requires proper coordination and stability between the hips, moving asymmetrically with onebearing the load of the body while the other moves freely. The pelvis and core must begin with and maintain stability andalignment throughout the movement pattern. The arms are still as they hold a dowel across the shoulders, giving theobserver further representation of the static responsibility of the upper body and trunk in the stepping movement.Excessive upper body movement in basic stepping is viewed as compensation; it is not seen when proper mobility,stability, posture and balance are available and functioning. The hurdle step challenges bilateral mobility and stability ofthe hips, knees and ankles. The test also challenges stability and control of the pelvis and core as it offers an opportunityto observe functional symmetry