Which principle describes movement development from the center of the body outwards?

The principle that describes movement development from the center of the body outwards is known as proximodistal development. This concept indicates that growth and control of movement begin in the central parts of the body, such as the trunk and then progress outward toward the arms, hands, legs, and feet. In the context of motor skills, this means that infants typically develop the ability to control their torso and larger muscle groups before they can master the fine motor skills required for precise movements of their fingers and toes. This sequence of development is critical for establishing core stability and strength, which are foundational for more complex and coordinated movements later on.

In contrast, the cephalocaudal principle refers to development progressing from head to tail, where control begins at the head and moves downward. Equilibrium and reciprocal inhibition are concepts related to balance and motor control but do not specifically address the pattern of development from the body's center to its extremities.