W-Sit Vs. Z-Sit
“Why is w-sitting not ideal but one leg being in a w (like a z-sit) is okay?”
ANSWER- This is SUCH a great and common question!
To start, w-sitting isn’t inherently a bad thing. There are many times where it is just another variation of sitting play positions - especially during times like crawling (when they’ll often crawl, briefly sit back into a slight w and then crawl again).
That being said, if w-sitting is persistent and/or the ONLY way they can really successfully sit and play, often times they are using that position for stability, as it creates a wider base of support and limits how much core activation is required to use your hands successfully.
It also makes it really challenging to transition easily, as legs in a wide-W are often stopping that fluid motion (especially if toes are pointed outward).
As compared to the side sit, or z-sit like you mention here, which is a POWERHOUSE position for posture, strengthening & transitions. When you are seeing the side (z-sit), it actually AIDS in transitions from sitting to the floor of hands and knees, which is what we want!
AND, typically the ones are pointed inward to the body with a side sit, which is a much less stressful position for knees and hips than a wide W-sit with toes outward. So all in all, let the side sit live, it’s great to see! Hope that helps!
Want More?
For developmental questions, tips and guidance related to milestones about tummy time, rolling & sitting, crawling and walking, check out KC’s developmental Masterclasses linked here.
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KC is a pediatric doctor of physical therapy, wife and mom of three! She has spent her career working with children and young adults of all ability levels, and currently specializes in birth to three years.
