Nikolai Bernstein's Levels of Motor Control: Understanding How We Move | Ep. 05

Nikolai Bernstein's essay on dexterity reveals how our movement develops through four evolutionary levels, from basic balance to complex actions requiring multiple brain systems working together.

• Level A (tone/statokinetic): The ancient foundation controlling balance, muscle tone, and trunk/neck stability
• Level B (muscular-articular links): Controls rhythmic movements and synergies like walking, facial expressions, and background adjustments
• Level C (space): Manages precise spatial movements like pointing, reaching, grabbing with a focus on external targets
• Level D (actions): Orchestrates complex chains of meaningful movements unique to humans
• Dexterity requires at least two levels working together - a leader determining goals and background systems providing support
• Human development follows these levels - starting with basic control and gradually mastering complex skills throughout childhood
• Our everyday movements use multiple systems simultaneously, with ancient fish-like balance mechanisms supporting uniquely human actions

What new insights do you have about your own dexterity? We encourage you to explore which specific levels or skills you're most curious about developing further.