Crossing midline is a skill where one uses the arms or legs to perform a task on the other side of the body. It requires that both sides of the brain communicate, and it is extremely important for development and bilateral coordination. When both sides of your brain can communicate, it enables speech and emotions to be better modulated. Additional, this skill is important for gross and fine motor skills and daily tasks, such as getting dressed, reading, eating, writing and cutting. The corpus callosum connects the right and left side of the brain and allows the transfer of information from one side to the other. Often, the corpus callosum is smaller than average. When we focus on tasks like crossing midline, it helps your brain create more pathways and neuroplasticity.
Another benefit of crossing midline is it increases functional fitness and the ability to maintain a higher quality of life. It enhances coordination and motor skills, which increases the ability to perform every day tasks and become independent. These skills are important as we age and also for those with developmental disabilities.
Examples of exercises that cross the midline are crossing marches, where you lift your right knee high and touch with your left hand and alternate sides, or seated twists with arm reaches.