Article

Core Training: Evidence Translating to Better Performance and Injury Prevention

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Abstract

THIS REVIEW ARTICLE RECOGNIZES THE UNIQUE FUNCTION OF THE CORE MUSCULATURE. IN MANY REAL LIFE ACTIVITIES, THESE MUSCLES ACT TO STIFFEN THE TORSO AND FUNCTION PRIMARILY TO PREVENT MOTION. THIS IS A FUNDAMENTALLY DIFFERENT FUNCTION FROM THOSE MUSCLES OF THE LIMBS, WHICH CREATE MOTION. BY STIFFENING THE TORSO, POWER GENERATED AT THE HIPS IS TRANSMITTED MORE EFFECTIVELY BY THE CORE. RECOGNIZING THIS UNIQUENESS, IMPLICATIONS FOR EXERCISE PROGRAM DESIGN ARE DISCUSSED USING PROGRESSIONS BEGINNING WITH CORRECTIVE AND THERAPEUTIC EXERCISES THROUGH STABILITY/MOBILITY, ENDURANCE, STRENGTH AND POWER STAGES, TO ASSIST THE PERSONAL TRAINER WITH A BROAD SPECTRUM OF CLIENTS.

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... A stable core provides sufficient proximal stability for appropriate distal mobility with the ability to control the movement of the trunk during static or dynamic motor tasks and functions as a connection to force and energy transfer between the central region and the lower and upper limbs [2][3][4]. Thus, a stable and strengthened core is proposed as a key element within the training programmes for fitness and athletic performance enhancement and within musculoskeletal injury prevention and spinal rehabilitation programmes [5][6][7]. ...
... Consequently, clinicians, physical therapists, and strength and conditioning specialists should know in-depth how the core works in this essential core stabilisation exercise for accurately instructing and correcting their patients or athletes to perform the traditional plank, maximising its exercise's safety, functionality, and efficacy. Otherwise, the misunderstanding could make the same exercise less functional, efficient, or even painful [6,33]. ...
... The suitable technique to perform the prone plank should involve that the core stabilising system should be able to provide a proper muscle activation while effectively preserve the neutral zone of the spine by maintaining all the natural spinal curvatures within physiologic ranges to minimise the passive tissue stress [12,32,33]. This need of controlling the spine posture requires to know in depth how the core works in this essential stabilisation exercise for instructing and correcting patients or athletes to achieve an appropriate muscle activation and spine posture [6,33]. Previous studies of the prone plank have reported how the abdominal activity can be influenced by the position of certain joint regions, linking their specific position to the magnitude of the sEMG and RPE responses [37,39,[42][43][44]. ...
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This study aimed to investigate the influence of head position on the electromyographical activity of the core muscles during the prone plank exercise. Twenty healthy participants were enrolled in this study. Muscle activation was registered using surface electromyography in the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and the lumbar portion of erector spinae. Three plank conditions were randomly evaluated, varying the position of the cranio-cervical segment during the plank performance (neutral, flexion and extension). The activation of each individual examined muscle and the overall core muscle activity (Total Intensity), as well as the ratings of perceived exertion were analysed with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Flexion revealed significantly higher Total Intensity values compared to neutral and extension (p < 0.001; effect size (ES) > 0.90). The rectus abdominis presented larger activation in flexion compared to the other variations (p < 0.05; ES > 0.70). Flexion elicited a greater response for both sides of external oblique when compared to neutral and extension, and also for both sides of internal oblique compared to the other conditions (p < 0.05; ES > 0.70). Both flexion and extension reported higher exertion rating values compared to neutral (p < 0.05; ES > 0.90). Head position influenced the electromyographical activation of core musculature, showing highest values when performing the plank in a head flexion.
... A stable core provides sufficient proximal stability for appropriate distal mobility with the ability to control the movement of the trunk during static or dynamic motor tasks and functions as a connection to force and energy transfer between the central region and the lower and upper limbs [2][3][4]. Thus, a 2 stable and strengthened core is proposed as a key element within the training programmes for fitness and athletic performance enhancement and within musculoskeletal injury prevention and spinal rehabilitation programmes [5][6][7]. ...
... Consequently, clinicians, physical therapists, and strength and conditioning specialists should know in-depth how the core works in this essential core stabilisation exercise for accurately instructing and correcting their patients or athletes to perform the traditional prone plank, maximising its exercise's safety, functionality, and efficacy. Otherwise, the misunderstanding could make the same exercise less functional, efficient, or even painful [6,28]. ...
... For the normalisation, before the performance of the testing conditions and after a light warm-up, three MVIC tests against manual resistance were performed for all the analysed muscles. After measurements, the worst set was discarded, and the mean of the two more similar sets were considered for sEMG normalisation, 6 establishing the average root-mean-square (RMS) values of them as MVIC reference values (100% MVIC). The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC2,1) was used to calculate the intra-session relative reliability of the selected MVICs. ...
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This study aimed to investigate the influence of cranio-cervical position on the electromyographical activity of the core muscles during the prone plank exercise. Twenty healthy participants were enrolled in this study. Muscle activation was registered using surface electromyography (sEMG) in the rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (EO), internal oblique (IO) and lumbar portion of erector spinae (LES). Three prone plank conditions were randomly evaluated, varying the position of the cranio-cervical segment during the prone plank performance (NEUTRAL, FLEXION and EXTENSION). sEMG signals of each individual muscle, Total Intensity (TI) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were analysed with statistical significance set at P<0.05. FLEXION revealed significantly higher TI values compared to NEUTRAL and EXTENSION (p = 0.000; effect size (ES) > 0.90). The RA presented larger activation in FLEXION compared to the other variations (p < 0.05; ES >0.70). FLEXION elicited a greater response compared to NEUTRAL for both sides of EO when compared to EXTENSION, and also for both sides of IO compared to the other conditions. Both FLEXION and EXTENSION reported higher RPE values compared to NEUTRAL. Cranio-cervical segment position influenced the electromyographical activation of core musculature, showing highest values when performing prone plank in a cranio-cervical flexion.
... Recent studies have demonstrated that integrated core training programs can lead to significant improvements in lower body strength measures, including squat strength and vertical jump performance [33]. The activation of leg muscles during core exercises, especially those involving anti-rotation and anti-extension principles, can lead to increased neural drive and motor unit recruitment in the lower extremities, potentially enhancing strength adaptations [34]. Additionally, the improved core stability resulting from targeted training may allow for more efficient and powerful hip extension during the jumping movement, as the pelvis provides a stable base for force production. ...
... This improved force transfer is particularly relevant to lower body explosive strength, as the core muscles play a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis and spine during rapid leg extension, allowing for greater power output from the hip, knee, and ankle joints [32]. The activation of leg muscles during core exercises, especially those involving antirotation and anti-extension principles, can lead to increased neural drive and motor unit recruitment in the lower extremities, potentially enhancing explosive strength adaptations [34]. Recent studies have demonstrated that integrated core training programs can lead to significant improvements in lower body explosive strength measures, including CMJ height and power output [38,39]. ...
Article
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This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 12-week core strength training (CST) program on bio-motor fitness components among college-level male soccer players aged 18 to 23 years. Methods: Sixteen male soccer players participated in this study. They were divided into an experimental group that underwent a CST program and a control group that maintained their regular training routine. The CST program, integrated into the regular soccer training schedule, included exercises such as planks, bridges, and various forms of crunches, progressively increasing in intensity. Upper body explosive strength was assessed using a backward medicine ball throw, lower body explosive power using a standing long jump and countermovement jump, and change of direction speed using an agility test. Sprint performance was measured with 15m and 30m linear sprint tests. Results: The CST group showed significant improvements across all measured variables. Notable percentage changes were observed in the 15m sprint (4.08%), 30m sprint (1.56%), upper body strength (6.87%), standing long jump (4.66%), countermovement jump (15.69%), and change of direction speed (12.35%). Effect sizes indicated substantial enhancements in standing long jump (g = 1.634, p = 0.001), countermovement jump (g = 7.110, p < 0.001), and change of direction speed (g = 3.142, p = 0.001). The control group did not exhibit significant changes in any variables. Conclusion: A 12-week core strength training program, consisting of three sessions per week, significantly improved bio-motor fitness components in college-level soccer players aged 18 to 23 years. These findings support the inclusion of CST in soccer training regimens to enhance athletic performance.
... 9 Stability of the core muscles influences lower limb functioning. 10 There is limited literature available that elucidates the relationship between CS and injury prevention. Core muscle endurance is the most predictable method of CS measurement, neuromuscular control, and function evaluation. ...
... The endurance of trunk muscles was evaluated using the McGill trunk endurance tests and they are highly reliable tests. 10 The tests were prone bridge, right side bridge, left side bridge, trunk flexion, and horizontal back extension tests. Each participant was informed to hold the test position as long as possible. ...
... The inclusion of a control group helps to control for potential confounding variables, ensuring that any observed changes can be attributed to the DNS training. The study will also explore the mechanisms through which DNS may influence athletic performance, providing a deeper understanding of how this approach can be integrated into training programs for athletes (Kolar, 2012;McGill, 2010). ...
... Commitment: Participants had to be willing to attend all training sessions and assessments and comply with study protocols.5. Informed Consent: Participants had to provide written informed consent after being fully informed about the study's nature and potential risks.Exclusion Criteria 1. ...
Article
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Background: College-level athletes often face unique challenges in maintaining optimal physical performance while balancing academic and athletic responsibilities. Neuro musculoskeletal dysfunctions are common in this population and can impair performance and increase injury risk. Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) is an innovative therapeutic approach based on developmental kinesiology principles. It aims to restore ideal postural and movement patterns, enhance core stability, and optimize neuromuscular control. This study investigates the effectiveness of an 8-week DNS training program on key physical performance metrics among college-level athletes. Methods: This quasi-experimental study included 30 college-level athletes aged 18-25, who were divided into two groups: the DNS group (n=15) and a control group (n=15). Participants in the DNS group underwent an 8-week training program focusing on exercises designed to activate deep stabilizing muscles, improve proprioception, and optimize movement patterns. The control group continued their usual training regimen without specific DNS interventions. The primary outcome measures were vertical jump height (VJT) and dynamic balance, assessed using the Y Balance Test (YBT). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted, and data were analyzed using paired t-tests and ANOVA to determine the intervention's effectiveness. Results: The DNS group demonstrated significant improvements in both VJT and YBT scores compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Specifically, the DNS group showed a mean increase in VJT of 4.2 cm and a significant enhancement in dynamic balance, with improvements in all directions measured by the YBT. The control group exhibited minimal changes in these performance metrics. These findings suggest that DNS training effectively enhances explosive power and dynamic stability, critical components of athletic performance. Conclusion: The study provides empirical evidence supporting the use of DNS as an effective training modality for enhancing physical performance in college-level athletes. The improvements observed in vertical jump height and dynamic balance suggest that DNS can play a pivotal role in optimizing athletic performance and potentially reducing the risk of injury. The study's findings have practical implications for sports physiotherapy and athletic training programs, recommending the integration of DNS techniques into standard training protocols. Keywords: Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization, DNS, athletic performance, college athletes, vertical jump, dynamic balance, sports physiotherapy, core stability.
... The core is essential for human movement owing to its important contribution to the control of a complex human locomotion system, which results from an intricate relationship among bones, fascia, muscles, tendons, and other key factors, such as neural structures (Ebenbichler, 2001;García-Jaén et al., 2023;Reed, 2012). Anatomically, the core comprises the lumbar spine, abdominal muscles, back extensors, quadratus lumborum, latissimus dorsi, psoas, legs, shoulders, and arms (McGill, 2010). Functionally, the muscles that constitute the core primarily serve to reinforce the trunk, and their primary function is to prevent or restrict movement rather than initiate it. ...
... Functionally, the muscles that constitute the core primarily serve to reinforce the trunk, and their primary function is to prevent or restrict movement rather than initiate it. This suggests that the core enhances the overall capabilities of the body (McGill, 2010;Zemkova, 2022). The ability of the core muscles to generate and maintain force is known as core strength. ...
Article
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The core refers to a group of muscles that allow optimal force transfer along the body’s kinetic chain and is critical for movement. The goal of this quasi-experimental study was to investigate the relationship between the experience level of Pilates participants and abdominal wall thickness. For this, we compared the thickness of four abdominal muscles—transversus abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO), and rectus abdominis (RA)—as measured before and after 8 weeks of Pilates training in three conditions, namely, relaxation, abdominal hollowing, and plank exercise. Eighteen participants were distributed into three groups with different levels of Pilates practice—experienced (EG; n=6), inexperienced (IG; n=7), and control (CG; n=5) groups. The RA showed a tendency to increase post-intervention in the EG (all conditions: p=0,002, p=0,006, and p=0,002, respectively for relaxation condition, abdominal hollowing and standing plank). Additionally, significant differences were found in relaxation (p=0.003, d=−0.744) and plank (p=0.009, d=−0.630) conditions in the IG. Significant differences were also registered in the EO muscle in the IG (all conditions: p=0.046, p=0.013, and p=0.008, respectively; d=0.464, d=−0.596, and d=−0.637, respectively). IO muscle thickness tended to increase in the CG in all conditions (p=0.044, p=0.006, and p<0.001, respectively) and the EG in relaxation and plank conditions (p=0.009 and p=0.007, respectively). Within groups, the effects of Pilates practice were more significant post-intervention, with the exceptions being under the contraction condition in the deepest muscles (IO: p=0.109, d=0.083; TrA: p=0.194, d=0.062). Our hypothesis was partially confirmed because 8 weeks of Pilates practice have improved significantly the thickness of the RA and EO muscles in the IG.
... The assessment of LPR may involve evaluating the relative contributions of lumbar and pelvic sagittal rotation to the endpoints of lower back motion; alternatively, it may entail a more comprehensive kinematic assessment of the timing and magnitude of these contributions within the entire range of forward flexion and backward extension [17,18,24,25]. Researchers and clinicians have employed indirect in vivo methods, such as lumbo-pelvic kinematics and the electromyography of the trunk musculature, in assessing the mechanical characteristics of the lower back; such methods evaluate patient conditions and guide management decisions [25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35][36]. However, studies utilizing these indirect measures, especially kinematic measurements, have exhibited significant variability in their outcomes and lack conclusive findings [13,37]. ...
... By continually monitoring posture, these devices aid in maintaining proper alignment, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal issues, and supporting the long-term management of chronic conditions [51,67]. This multifaceted approach could contribute to muscle strengthening, postural correction, and the overall efficacy of rehabilitation programs [28,30,53,62,65]. Additionally, the longitudinal tracking of LPR data could allow for personalized assessments of patient progress, facilitating the tailored adaptation of rehabilitation interventions to individualized needs [12,13]. ...
Article
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Citation: García-Jaén, M.; Sebastia-Amat, S.; Sanchis-Soler, G.; Cortell-Tormo, J.M. Lumbo-Pelvic Rhythm Monitoring Using Wearable Technology with Sensory Biofeedback: A Systematic Review. Healthcare 2024, 12, 758. https://doi. Abstract: As an essential lower-back movement pattern, lumbo-pelvic rhythm (LPR) during forward trunk flexion and backward return has been investigated on a large scale. It has been suggested that abnormalities in lumbo-pelvic coordination are related to the risk of developing low back disorders. However, considerable differences in the approaches used to monitor LPR make it challenging to integrate findings from those investigations for future research. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to summarize the use of wearable technology for kinematic measurement with sensory biofeedback for LPR monitoring by assessing these technologies' specific capabilities and biofeedback capacities and exploring their practical viability based on sensor outcomes. The review was developed following the PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was analyzed using the PREDro and STROBE scales. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and IEEEXPLORE databases were searched for relevant studies, initially returning a total of 528 articles. Finally, we included eight articles featuring wearable devices with audio or vibration biofeedback. Differences in protocols and limitations were also observed. This novel study presents a review of wearable tracking devices for LPR motion-mediated biofeedback for the purpose of correcting lower back posture. More research is needed to determine the long-term effectiveness of these devices, as well as their most appropriate corresponding methodologies.
... For these reasons, lumbar stabilization exercises are frequently prescribed in preventive and rehabilitation interventions for the lumbo-pelvic-hip complex, particularly for low back pain [9]. Additionally, lumbar stabilization exercises are used in training programs for various sports to prevent injuries and improve performance [10,11]. Stiffening the torso, the lumbar, and other core muscles enables safer and more efficient transmission of the power generated by the lower limbs to the upper body during explosive movements [11,12]. ...
... Additionally, lumbar stabilization exercises are used in training programs for various sports to prevent injuries and improve performance [10,11]. Stiffening the torso, the lumbar, and other core muscles enables safer and more efficient transmission of the power generated by the lower limbs to the upper body during explosive movements [11,12]. ...
Article
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(1) Background: Most daily activities and sport gestures involve asymmetric movement patterns of the upper and lower extremities, transferring asymmetric mechanical loadings to the spine. Therefore, asymmetric lumbar stabilization exercises are frequently prescribed in athletic programs and preventive/rehabilitation interventions. This study analyzed the bilateral activity of the thoracic erector spinae (ES), lumbar multifidus (MF), external oblique (EO), and internal oblique (IO) during asymmetric lumbar stabilization exercises executed in prone, quadruped, and standing-prone positions, rising an upper and/or lower limb in all possible combinations. A limited subset of these data has been previously published in earlier studies. (2) Methods: Surface EMG signals were bilaterally recorded from the selected muscles using wireless EMG sensors. (3) Results: ES, MF, and oblique muscles’ activity was significantly higher in prone, standing-prone, and quadruped positions, respectively, and was maximized by specific limb rise combinations (up to 69%, 64%, 34%, and 24% maximum-voluntary-isometric-contraction for ES, MF, EO, and IO). The bilateral difference in muscle activation was significantly higher in the quadruped position and revealed different strategies used to stabilize the body in response to the different exercise conditions. (4) Conclusions: The study results can provide deeper insights into the stabilizing function of the lumbar and oblique muscles and aid in designing optimal progressions for lumbar stabilization exercises.
... Inconsistent findings can be attributed to the absence of a universally accepted 'gold standard' method for assessing core stability, as different studies have used different measurements [17,21]. For instance, some studies have utilised assessments developed from McGill's core muscle endurance tests [10,16,19,20,22,23], whereas others have assessed core stability from five distinct perspectives: core strength, core endurance, flexibility, motor control, and functionality [4,21,24]. Although these approaches are valid in specific contexts [6,21], they do not comprehensively represent core stability. ...
... Although these approaches are valid in specific contexts [6,21], they do not comprehensively represent core stability. The former methods predominantly focus on isometric muscle contraction or endurance of the trunk musculature, particularly in patients with low back pain [6,16,19,22,23]. Conversely, the latter methods tend to conflate the five components mentioned above with core stability (i.e. the five components have parallel relationships, not inclusive relationships). ...
Article
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Various assessments have contributed to inconsistent findings regarding the correlation between core stability and vertical jumps. Therefore, this study aimed to re-examine this correlation based on novel core stability assessments. Twenty-one recreationally active male college students (age, 21.7 ± 2.1 years; stature, 174.9 ± 6.7 cm; body mass, 67.7 ± 7.8 kg; leg length, 88.9 ± 4.8 cm; arm length, 87.8 ± 4.0 cm) participated in this experiment. Core stability was divided into static and dynamic core stabilities, with the static core stability measured using the Eight-Level Prone Bridge and Five-Level Side Bridge tests and the dynamic core stability measured using the Y Balance Test (YBT). These tests comprehensively evaluate core stability as it is defined. Kinematic and kinetic data on vertical jumps were collected to provide process information beyond the outcome performance. Subsequently, these data were correlated with core stability for a deeper insight into the relationship between core stability and the process and outcome performance of vertical jumps. The main results revealed that the Eight-Level Prone Bridge demonstrated mod�erate to substantial correlations with Δ Fy, Δ Iy, ΔDleft knee z, and ΔDleft ankle y (− 0.62 ≤ r ≤ 0.52); the Five-Level Side Bridge exhibited moderate correlations with Δ Fx, Δ Fy, Δ Ix, Δ Iy, ΔDleft knee z, and ΔDleft ankle y (− 0.52 ≤ r ≤ 0.59); YBT displayed moderate correlations with Fz, Fleft z, Δ Dleft ankle y, Δ Dright ankle y, Δ Dleft ankle z, Δ Dright ankle z, NΔ Tankle y, and N Tleft ankle z (− 0.54 ≤ r ≤ 0.54) during the propulsive phase of vertical jumps. However, no significant correlations were observed between static/dynamic core stability and jumping height. Therefore, individuals with greater core stability should experience improved process performance (better movement quality), although this benefit is ineffective in translating into jumping height improvement due to impaired explosive features. Coaches may consider core stability in training to trigger an improved process performance of the vertical jump when the technique is the key issue to be solved, although future studies are required to verify this further.
... Fourteen passive retro-reflective mark-musculature strength. [24][25][26] in this investigation, we relied on movement tempo, often defined as cadence or lifting speed of a resistance exercise, to emphasize the eccentric, isometric, and concentric phases of the training program (Table ii). for example, during the eccentric phase, the tempo using four-digit combinations (i.e., 4/1/1/1) determines the duration, in seconds, of a particular (eccentric/isometric/ concentric/isometric) phase of the movement. ...
... additionally, post-training maximum jump height, maximum jump power, h:Q ratios at 60°/s, 180 °/s, and 300 °/s increased by 8±8%, 3±5%, 18±19%, The JourNal of SporTS MediciNe aNd phySical fiTNeSS 7 sion to prevent "gluteal amnesia," which is a consequence and possible cause of low back injuries. 26 additionally, vertical jump height and power were increased following 8 weeks of resistance training emphasizing posterior chain strengthening. This finding supports work by previous investigators who observed a positive correlation between countermovement jump height and h:Q ratio. ...
Article
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Background: Poor pelvic posture demonstrated through anterior pelvic tilt (APT) have been known to produce musculoskeletal imbalances involving weakness of the abdominal and pelvic musculature. While stretching and massage techniques have been reported to be effective in alleviating APT, it remains unclear if similar improvements can be elicited by posterior chain and core strength training. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the effect of an 8-week posterior and core strengthening program on APT, hamstrings-to-quadriceps (H:Q) strength ratio, and vertical jump performance in healthy individuals. Methods: Ten healthy males (age = 26±12 years; mass = 87±14 kg; height = 1.8±0.1 m) and nine healthy females (age = 22±4 years; mass = 70±14 kg; heigh t = 1.7±0.1 m) performed resistance training (2×/week; 40-45 mins) involving a combination of hip extensors and abdominal strengthening exercises for 8 weeks. APT (°), vertical jump power (W), vertical jump height (m), and H:Q ratio at 60, 180, and 300°/s were assessed prior to and following the resistance training program. Results: APT, vertical jump power, vertical jump height, and H:Q ratio at 60 and 180°/s, were significantly improved following 8 weeks of resistance training (all Ps<0.05). Conclusions: Our main finding was that 8 weeks of resistance training emphasizing posterior chain and core strengthening was effective in reducing APT, improving vertical jump performance and H:Q ratio in healthy individuals. Our findings have potential implications for clinicians prescribing resistance training exercises to improve pelvic posture in healthy asymptomatic individuals at risk of developing chronic low back pain and lumbar-spinal pathologies due to excessive anterior pelvic tilt.
... Bunun yanısıra kas gruplarının tek başına değil birlikte hareket ettiklerini ve bu sayede kor kasla-rının bir korse gibi davranarak, stabilite, hareket veya bir harekete karşı direnç sırasında optimum verimi sağladıklarını belirtmiştir (39). Yeterince önemsenmeyen kor bölgeleri, yapılacak olan kuvvet antrenmanları sonunda sporcuların sakatlanma risklerini artırarak teknik becerilerini kısıtlarken aksine önemesenen kor bölgeleri ise sporcunun yüklenme yoğunluğunu arttırmasının yanında teknik açısından hareketleri de daha verimli bir şekilde ortaya çıkarmasına yardımcı olacaktır (40). ...
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The comparison of core training programme that is carried out for 8 weeks to the young footbal- lers and volleyball players, with the physichal conditions and parameters of performance The aim of this study was to plan the physical condition and performance parameters of the core training program for young male footballers and volleyballers for 8 weeks. Twenty male soccer players (the mean age 15,40±0,82, mean leght 1,70±0,06 m, mean body weight 59,85±5,00 kg) who play football at Pursaklar Municipality Sports Club with 14 male volleyball players (the mean age 15±00, mean leght 1,86±0,06 m, mean body weight 73,57±7,24 kg) who play volleyball at Halk- bank Volleyball Clup were included in study on a voluntary basis. Before the trainings, pre-test sco- res ( speed 10-20m, sit-up 30 sn, 20 m shuttle run, vertical jump, core stabilization and prone bridge ) were recorded. İn addition to the normal training of both groups, the core training was applied for 8 weeks including the first 6 weeks (3 days / week) and the last 2 weeks (2 days / week). At the end of the training, the final test measurements of the groups were taken in accordance with the proto- col. The data obtained were evaluated using the IBM SPSS Statistics 22.0 statistical program. Ac- cording to statistical process result, there was a significant increase in performance tests of football and volleyball players. There was a significant difference in anaerobic power performance values only for football players. While there was a significant increase in the final measurement values of prone bridge, trunk flexion and trunk extensions of both groups, there was no significant difference in letheral flexion test in volleyballs. When performance and core stabilization tests of football and volleyball players were compared, the performance values showed a significant difference, but this difference was not observed in trunk flexion test (p<0.05). As a result, it was observed that the 8 week core training sessions that will be applied in addition to football and volleyball training have contributed to the performance improvement of young pla- yers and volleyball players such as strength, speed and endurance. It is considered that the inclusion to training of the young players will improve the performance of the athleticks positively.
... Core stabilisation exercises are designed to strengthen the core muscles, including the trunk muscles from the diaphragm to the pelvic floor, providing critical dynamic stability to the lumbar spine and improving functional movement (Akuthota & Nadler 2004;McGill 2010). Various core stabilisation exercises engage different core muscles namely the pelvic floor, the rectus abdominis, the internal and external obliques, and, most critically, the transversus abdominis (TrA), the deepest abdominal muscle. ...
Article
Core stability, particularly involving the Transverse Abdominis (TrA) muscle, is essential for lumbar support and is especially relevant for individuals with lower back pain. Traditional Pressure Biofeedback Units (PBUs) are commonly used to monitor TrA activation during core stabilization exercises but these analogue devices have limitations in terms of monitoring usability, often requiring manual readings prone to error. This study aims to develop and test a digitized Pressure Biofeedback Unit (PBU) prototype specifically for monitoring transverse abdominis (TrA) muscle activation, enhancing accuracy and providing real-time digital feedback for clinical and rehabilitation settings. The prototype integrates an Arduino microcontroller and a barometric pressure sensor to capture TrA activation automatically, reducing manual operation. Readings of the PBU prototype were then evaluated by applying loads weighing 1 to 3 kg and compared against the pressure gauge. Six healthy male participants (mean age 24 ÷ 2 years) performed abdominal draw-in manoeuvres at targeted pressures of 50, 60, and 70 mmg, with muscle activation recorded via surface electromyography (EMG) and PBU. Results indicated that the root mean square error (RMSE) of dPBU ranged 0.15 to 0.94mmHg at baseline (i.e. no load) and with loads up to 2kg only, affirming the dPBU's accuracy in detecting TrA activity. Additionally, a positive trend showed between the PBU and EMG measurements with dispersion less than 0.5mmHg across different levels of muscle activity suggests that the PBU could serve as a reliable, user-friendly alternative to EMG biofeedback in core stabilization training, supporting efficient TrA monitoring and activation in clinical rehabilitation.
... Core stabilization training is a method designed to improve core muscle strength and enhance body balance [5]. In gymnastics, core stabilization exercises are essential because movements such as longitudinal rotations, jumps, and landings demand dynamic postural stability to maintain balance [6]. These exercises, whether static or dynamic, improve stability by strengthening the trunk, abdominal, and PEDAGOGY back muscles, which are critical for balance during activity [7]. ...
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Background and Study Aim. Core stability is a fundamental aspect of gymnastics performance, essential for balance, flexibility, and overall strength. This study aims to investigate the effects of long-term circuit training with static and dynamic core stabilization on physical components in gymnasts. Material and Methods. This study used a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. A total of 42 participants were randomly assigned to three groups: a control group (CTR, n=14), a static core stabilization group (CSS, n=14), and a dynamic core stabilization group (CSD, n=14). The intervention programs for static and dynamic core stabilization included six distinct exercises. These exercises were performed three times per week over an 8-week period. Data were collected at two time points: pretest and posttest. Physical components assessed included flexibility, balance, and the strength of the abdominal, back, leg, and arm muscles. Data analysis was conducted using a paired sample t-test with the significance level set at 5%. Results. The results showed significant improvements in flexibility (cm), balance (s), back muscle strength (kg), abdominal muscle strength (repetitions), and arm muscle strength (repetitions) in the core stabilization groups between the pretest and posttest (p ≤ 0.05). However, no significant changes were observed in leg muscle strength (kg) (p ≥ 0.05). When comparing groups, significant differences were noted in balance (s), back muscle strength (kg), abdominal muscle strength (repetitions), and arm muscle strength (repetitions) (p ≤ 0.05). Flexibility (cm) and leg muscle strength (kg) did not show significant differences between groups (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusions. The study highlights the importance of incorporating core stabilization exercises into circuit training programs for gymnasts. Both static and dynamic approaches to core stabilization provide valuable strategies for optimizing physical conditioning and enhancing athletic performance. These findings can inform the development of evidence-based training protocols aimed at improving key physical attributes critical for gymnastics.
... Many studies have emphasized that core stability affects upper and lower extremity functionality. Inadequate core muscle endurance leads to inhibition of specific extremity muscles [33,34]. However, there is no clarity as to which muscle group is more important for which extremity [35]. ...
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Introduction The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between the functional status of the extremities and “core” stabilization in women with fibromyalgia (FM). Material and methods Fifty-seven women with FM were included. The Widespread Pain Index (WPI), Visual Analogue Scale-Pain (VAS-Pain), Symptom Severity Scale (SSS), Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), McGill Static endurance tests (trunk flexors endurance, trunk extensors endurance, lateral bridge tests), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH), grip strength, Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), chair-stand test, pressure pain threshold and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) were used in evaluation. Results The trunk flexors endurance test showed a weak correlation with 6MWT (r = 0.392), DASH (r = –0.347), LEFS (r = 0.328) and WPI (r = –0.289). The trunk extensors endurance test showed a weak correlation with grip strength-right (r = 0.285), DASH (r = –0.301) and LEFS (r = 0.321) and a moderate correlation with grip strength-left (r = 0.407), chair-stand test (r = 0.470) and 6MWT (r = 0.524). The right lateral bridge test showed a weak correlation with grip strength-right (r = 0.271), DASH (r = –0.379), LEFS (r = 0.254), WPI (r = –0.306), average of maximal values of pressure pain threshold (r = 0.316) and average of mean values of pressure pain threshold (r = 0.337); it showed a moderate correlation with grip strength-left (r = 0.418) and 6MWT (r = 0.414). The left lateral bridge test showed a weak correlation with grip strength-right (r = 0.279), chair-stand test (r = 0.276), 6MWT (r = 0.359), DASH (r = –0.294), average of maximal values of pressure pain threshold (r = 0.315) and average of mean values of pressure pain threshold (r = 0.370); it showed a moderate correlation with grip strength-left (r = 0.502) (p < 0.05). Conslusions Core muscle endurance is associated with upper and lower extremity functional level and pain parameters in women with FM.
... These results can be associated with the strengthening of respiratory muscles and increasing rib cage mobility. In a study conducted by Kilding et al., [17], significant improvements in FEV1 values were observed after core exercises and core stabilization led to more efficient breathing patterns [18]. The findings of this study indicated that core exercises increased respiratory performance in athletes. ...
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In addition to strength development, the increase in respiratory capacity has an important place in increasing the performance of athletes. For these reasons, the study aimed to examine the effect of core exercises applied to football players on respiratory parameters. The research group consisted of 12 randomly selected control groups and 12 core training groups, a total of 24 football players between the ages of 14-17 playing football at Niğde Youth and Sports Club. While the control group continued their routine football training, the core group performed static and dynamic core exercises for 45 min, 3 days a week for 8 weeks, in addition to general training. SPSS 26 program was used to analyze the data. The normality distributions of the data were determined with the Shapiro-Willk test. Percentage frequency distributions of the data were made, the Independent T test was used for intergroup comparisons, and the Paired T test was used for intra-group comparisons. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that core exercises had a positive effect on respiratory parameters.
... Due to the increase in the moment arm at this point, the force required to continue the movement is greater (59). This factor could affect technique and lead to compensatory movements and loss of correct back posture, increasing the perception of a higher risk of injury (60). These challenges could cause failures in the stability and efficiency of the movement, increasing the load on undesired structures (58,61). ...
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Background: The squat exercise has been shown to improve athletic performance. However, the use of the deep squat has been questioned due to claims that it may cause knee joint injuries. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review was to synthesize existing literature concerning the impact of deep squats on knee osteoarticular health in resistance-trained individuals. Methods: This study adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. The original protocol was prospectively registered in Figshare (https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.24945033.v1). A systematic and exhaustive search was conducted in different databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus. Additional searches were performed in Google Scholar and PEDro. The main inclusion criteria were the following: (1) Articles of experimental, observational, or theoretical nature, including randomized controlled trials, longitudinal studies, case reports, integrative reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses(Primary studies were required to have a minimum follow-up duration of 6 weeks, whereas secondary studies were expected to adhere to PRISMA or COCHRANE guidelines or be registered with PROSPERO; (2) Peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2024; (3) Publications written in English, Spanish and Portuguese; (4) Studies reporting the effects of deep half, parallel or quarter squats on the knee or evaluating squats as a predictor of injury. Results: The keyword search resulted in 2,274 studies, out of which 15 met all inclusion criteria. These 15 studies comprised 5 cohort studies, 3 randomized controlled trials, 4 literature or narrative reviews, 1 case study, and 2 systematic reviews, one including a meta-analysis. Overall, the risk of bias (ROB) across these studies was generally low. It is worth noting that only one study, a case study, associated deep squats with an increased risk of injury, the remaining 14 studies showed no negative impact of deep squats on knee joint health. Conclusion: The deep squat appears to be a safe exercise for knee joint health and could be included in resistance training programs without risk, provided that proper technique is maintained. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/sports-and-active-living/articles/10.3389/fspor.2024.1477796/full?utm_source=Email_to_authors_&utm_medium=Email&utm_content=T1_11.5e1_author&utm_campaign=Email_publication&field&journalName=Frontiers_in_Sports_and_Active_Living&id=1477796
... Functional capacity was evaluated by the timed up-and-go test (TUG) [34], upper limb endurance [35], flexibility [35], handgrip isometric strength [36], trunk flexion and extension isometric strength [37][38][39], and a 6 min walk test [40]. ...
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This study investigated the impacts of online and face-to-face Mat Pilates training in adults with persistent symptoms of long COVID on health outcomes. Forty-nine patients (52 ± 5.85 yr.) diagnosed with long COVID related to fatigue symptoms were randomly included in three groups: online Mat Pilates training (n = 16), face-to-face Mat Pilates training (n = 15), and a control group (n = 18) without training. Mat Pilates training was conducted three times a week for 12 weeks. Fatigue, functional capacity, anthropometrics, body composition, and cardiometabolic markers were assessed before and after the interventions. Two-factor Generalized Estimating Equation analyses identified significant differences with Bonferroni post hoc testing (p < 0.05). After the intervention, only the face-to-face Mat Pilates training group had an improved total, physical and mental fatigue, trunk isometric strength, upper limb muscle endurance strength, and aerobic capacity (p < 0.05). No changes were found in fat mass, muscle mass, free fat mass, % of fat, body mass, body mass index, or waist and hip circumferences. No significant changes were observed in blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, triglycerides, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, or blood pressure (p > 0.05). Our results highlight the potential of face-to-face Mat Pilates training as an effective intervention to mitigate persistent symptoms of long COVID related to fatigue and functional capacities.
... Excellent flexibility in a fast bowler does not necessarily translate into good extensibility. He must be adaptable according to different conditions, (McGill, 2010) [30] . So, adding isometrics and skill stability routines will help pacers bowl quicker overall. ...
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Around 12 permanent and 94 associate countries participate in the worldwide sport of cricket, where fast bowlers play a crucial role in any eleven-member squad. With the changing dynamics of this batsman-dominated game and increased requirements for fast bowlers, one of the hot topics for discussion is how to effectively manage a fast bowler's load by emphasising his biomechanical tendencies and keeping him match fit by avoiding major injuries that are a usual part of a fast bowler's cricketing career. This study seeks to provide the physiological literature about fast bowlers in cricket and a useful and periodised training programme for them during their in-season preparation. Additionally, it provides us with the limitations of earlier studies and potential directions for future research in Strength & Conditioning. The primary objective of this review is to provide the evidence in this area with a place to start.
... Fazl Ersi et al. (2017) also reported a significant relationship between central stability and CMJ jump and stated that it seems that increasing the strength of the core region can improve the CMJ jump (Fazl Ers et al., 2015). According to McGill's opinion, the central muscles of the body do not produce power by themselves, but during sports activities, they can transfer the power produced in the hip joint to other parts of the body while keeping the trunk stable (McGill, 2010). Since the muscles of the central region of the body improve in 11+ exercises, this increase in the index could be explained. ...
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The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of modified FIFA 11+ training on functional factors of beach soccer players. The study is an RCT. Forty subjects divided to two control and exercise groups. functional factors was collected by the Bosco jump test on the force plate. repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare, between groups and the intervention group, as well as the effect of intervention. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS at the significant level of 0.05. The result showed that Bosco index (F1,38 = 42.85, p <0.001), power index (F1,38 = 12.33, p = 0.001) and equilibrium index (F1,38 = 127.11, p = 0.001) were increased after intervention. The time × group interaction for the Bosco-index was significant. The modified FIFA 11+ which performed in the sand had an effect on functional factors. these exercises are recommended for beach soccer players to improve their performance. RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue investigar el efecto del entrenamiento modificado de FIFA 11+ sobre los factores funcionales de los jugadores de fútbol playa. El estudio es un ECA. Cuarenta sujetos divididos en dos grupos de control y de ejercicio. Los factores funcionales se recogieron mediante el test de salto de Bosco sobre la plataforma Cita: Sharifatpour, R., Abbasi, H., Alizadeh, M., Abedinzadeh, S. & Machado, S. (2024). Effect of 12 weeks of modified FIFA 11+ training on functional factors of male beach soccer players: A Randomized Controlled Trial study. Cuadernos de Psicología del Deporte, 24(3), 265-280 Cuadernos de Psicología del Deporte, 24, 3 (septiembre) Sharifatpour et al. de fuerza. Se utilizó ANOVA de medidas repetidas para comparar, entre los grupos y el grupo de intervención, así como el efecto de la intervención. Los análisis estadísticos se realizaron utilizando SPSS al nivel significativo de 0.05. El resultado mostró que el índice de Bosco (F1,38 = 42.85, p <0.001), el índice de poder (F1,38 = 12.33, p = 0.001) y el índice de equilibrio (F1,38 = 127.11, p = 0.001) aumentaron después de la intervención. La interacción tiempo × grupo para el índice de Bosco fue significativa. El FIFA 11+ modificado que se desarrolló en la arena influyó en los factores funcionales. Estos ejercicios están recomendados a los jugadores de fútbol playa para mejorar su rendimiento. Palabras clave: Prevalencia, Lesiones, FIFA 11+, Fútbol Playa, Factores funcionales. RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi investigar o efeito do treinamento modificado do FIFA 11+ nos fatores funcionais de jogadores de futebol de areia. O estudo é um ECR. Quarenta sujeitos divididos em dois grupos controle e exercício. os fatores funcionais foram coletados pelo teste de salto Bosco na plataforma de força. ANOVA de medidas repetidas foi utilizada para comparar entre os grupos e o grupo intervenção, bem como o efeito da intervenção. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas no SPSS ao nível de significância de 0.05. O resultado mostrou que o índice de Bosco (F1,38 = 42.85, p <0.001), índice de potência (F1,38 = 12.33, p = 0.001) e índice de equilíbrio (F1,38 = 127.11, p = 0.001) aumentaram após a intervenção. A interação tempo x grupo para o índice Bosco foi significativa. O FIFA 11+ modificado que atuou na areia teve efeito nos fatores funcionais. esses exercícios são recomendados para jogadores de futebol de praia melhorarem seu desempenho.
... By training these muscles, athletes can enhance their strength, stability, and coordination, thereby improving overall sports performance. The stability of the core muscles is essential for force transmission and movement control in various sports [1]. ...
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Core training plays a vital role in modern athletic training and has a significant impact on an athlete's performance across a wide range of sports. The purpose of this article is to explore how core training can improve an athlete's explosive power and the specific contribution of this training method to athletic performance. Through literature review and empirical analysis, this study comprehensively evaluated the methods and effects of core muscle training and its application in different sports. The study found that systematic core muscle training significantly improved the athlete's stability, balance and power transfer efficiency, thereby enhancing their explosive power. This study provides athletes and coaches with scientific training guidance that can help them achieve better performance in competitive sports.
... Such a suggestion is within Rodriguez et al. (2023) who demonstrated that core training should be included in training sessions to improve overall athletic performance. However, as underlined by several studies, training programs must respect the functional characteristics of the sports to be transferable (Myer et al., 2005;McGill, 2010). Thus, core strength exercises are functional for a specific sport when these exercises lead to an efficient and specialized motor unit recruitment to achieve the proper coordination of the segments involved in the kinetic chain of sport-specific skills (Lederman, 2010). ...
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This study investigates individual performance adaptations on 2 years of training between European Aerobics Championships. An elite, 22-year-old aerobic gymnast performed postural coordination test, Y-Balance test, squat and countermovement jumps, 60 s test of repeated jumps, an isokinetic leg muscle strength test, and the Wingate test. Postural stability and flexibility improved in terms of increased distance achieved in the Y-Balance test in the anterior (by 6.3%), posteromedial (by 2%), and posterolateral (by 4.8%) directions. Lower limb muscular endurance also increased, which can be corroborated by a reduced fatigue index in the 60 s test of repeated jumps (from 42% to 27% after the 1st and to 22% after the 2nd year of training). In addition, mean power increased during dominant (by 23.2% at 60°/s and by 18.5% at 180°/s) and non-dominant leg extension (by 4.9% at 180°/s and by 15.5% at 300°/s), plus dominant leg flexion (by 2.0% at 60°/s and by 6.9% at 300°/s). Similarly, peak torque/body weight ratio increased during dominant (by 24.9% at 60°/s, by 11.5% at 180°/s, and by 2.1% at 300°/s) and non-dominant leg extension (by 0.5% at 60°/s and by 6.4% at 300°/s), plus dominant leg flexion (by 1.7% at 60°/s and by 5.4% at 300°/s). However, 2 years of training failed to show any significant improvements in the explosive power of lower limbs and anaerobic performance. These findings indicate that general aerobic gymnastics training without any specific inputs leads to performance adaptation, namely, in abilities closely related to competition routine (dynamic balance and strength endurance of lower limbs).
... It is generally believed that core training plays a significant role in enhancing performance and preventing injuries [95]. However, our search did not uncover any research on the effect of CST on injury prevention among badminton players. ...
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Background Core strength training (CST) has been shown to improve performance in several sports disciplines. CST is recognized as one of the crucial elements that enhance athletic performance, particularly impacting badminton skills. Despite its popularity as a strength training method among badminton players, there is a lack of comprehensive studies examining the effectiveness of CST on the performance of these athletes. Objective This study aims to ascertain CST’s effects on badminton players’ performance. Method This study followed PRISMA principles and conducted comprehensive searches in well-known academic databases (SCOPUS, Pubmed, CNKI, Web of Science, Core Collection, and EBSCOhost) up to August 2023. The inclusive criteria were established using the PICOS framework. Following their inclusion based on PICOS criteria, the selected studies underwent literature review and meta-analysis. The methodological quality of the assessments was evaluated using Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tools bias risk tools and recommendations for a graded assessment, development, and evaluation. Results The analysis included participants aged 10–19 years from 13 studies of moderate quality, totaling 208 individuals. The CST intervention s lasted between 4 to 16 weeks, with a frequency of 1 to 4 sessions per week and each session lasting 20 to 120 minutes. Sample sizes across these studies ranged from 8 to 34 participants. According to the meta-analysis, CST significantly influenced badminton performance, particularly in areas of explosive power (ES = 0.03 P = 0.04), front-court skill (ES = 2.53, P = 0.003), and back-court skill (ES = 2.33, P = 0.002). Conclusion CST enhances badminton players’ fitness (strength, power, balance, and stability), in situ (front/back-court) skills, and movement position hitting. However, its effects on speed, endurance, agility, flexibility, and coordination are unclear, revealing a research gap. The precise benefits of CST, especially on flexibility and specific hitting skills (smashes, clears, drives, net shots, crosscourt, push, and lift shots), need more investigation. Additionally, research on CST’s impact on female athletes is significantly lacking.
... Each group performed the exercises listed in the table twice a week, with Group 1 incorporating guided use of Centering in the execution; Group 2 performed the exercises without any instructions regarding Centering. These exercises were selected because they are considered the most used to promote core stability (McGill, 2010) and involve the abdominal, lumbar, and hip muscles. Both groups were advised to perform these exercises with attention to correct posture and body alignment, always maintaining core activation and controlling breathing during execution. ...
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This study examines the effect of Centering in physical education on adolescents, investigating its impact on balance and psychological parameters such as stress perception and the inclination to share with peers. Centering, according to the Synchrony Method of movement education, affects intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) and bodily experience. We compared a control group, which followed a traditional exercise program, with an experimental group, which incorporated Centering into their physical education program for 6 weeks. To evaluate the effects, we used the Stork Balance Test to measure physical balance and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), enriched by a qualitative question on the willingness to socialize, to assess perceived stress. The results showed that the experimental group recorded significant improvements in balance. Furthermore, we observed a reduction in perceived stress levels and an increase in the propensity to socialize among participants. The conclusions of our study suggest that integrating Centering into physical education can have beneficial effects not only on the physical balance of adolescents but also on their psychological well-being and social interaction capabilities.
... According to Irawan & Long-ren, (2019) the causes of injuries experienced by humans are different, ranging from body contact, field conditions, muscle weakness or even overuse. One of the injuries that often occurs in sports is ankle sprains, this occurs because the ankle joint is less able to resist medial, lateral, pressure and rotational forces (McGill, 2010). According to Paul & Singh, (2014) humans who walk normally are known for rhythmic and repetitive movements. ...
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The purpose of this study was to determine the analysis of stride length and walking speed in the walking gait of students who have ankle injuries. This study is analytical descriptive research with a one-shot case study design. The analysis through video recording of walking gait at 3 meters distance is analyzed using Kinovea software version 0.9.5. The total sample in this study used 27 people from students majoring in Elite Sports at Universitas Negeri Semarang who had an average age of 20 years and had historical injury by the physiotherapy data. This study's results indicated a significant difference between the stride length of people with a history of ankle injury and normal people. It was found that the results of the length of steps and the walking speed of students with a history of ankle injury averaged 1.22 m shorter than normal, which is 1.73 m in stride length. The data found the average speed was 1.135 (m/s) faster than ordinary people who get 1.59 m/s. Limitations in this study are only kinematic data was analyzed and need more kinetics data to complement the founding of this study. Further research is expected to be able to analyze walking gait at each angle in the leg segment which has contributed to improving walking performance.
... The endurance of trunk muscles was evaluated using the McGill trunk endurance tests and they are highly reliable tests [7]. The tests were prone-bridge, right side-bridge, left side-bridge, trunk flexion and horizontal back extension tests. ...
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Background: Testing the association between trunk muscle endurance and chronic ankle instability (CAI) is very important to recognize risk factors related to CAI. This facilitates prevention of injury and management of the associated musculoskeletal deficits of CAI. Objective: to assess endurance of trunk muscles in females with CAI. Methods: This study consisted of 62 females, allocated into two equal groups of 31; the experimental group (A) included females with CAI and the healthy control (Group B) included healthy females. McGill core endurance tests (prone-bridge, right side-bridge, left side-bridge, trunk flexion and horizontal back extension) were administered to assess trunk muscle endurance. Results: Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in trunk muscle endurance between the two tested groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Although, the results indicated higher values of trunk endurance in the CAI group compared with their healthy controls, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups. This denotes the compensatory mechanism that altered ankle-hip strategy. CC License CC-BY-NC-SA 4.0
... This type of exercise improves dynamic balance, functional anatomy, static balance and flexibility. 29,30 Because core training causes both structural changes in muscles and neural adaptation. 31 In addition, core exercises used as dynamic and static training improve core balance and strength by improving proprioceptive senses and providing muscular recovery and body control. ...
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Urinary incontinence, with its scientific name, is the inability of the individual to control the urine. It is a common problem worldwide. This problem is twice as common in women as in men. This problem occurs more in old age. There are two types of muscle fibers in the pelvic diaphragm muscles. The first are slow-twitch type 1 fibers and are responsible for providing the tonic support of the pelvic structures. The second type of fibers are fast-twitch type 2 fibers and play a role in balancing intra-abdominal sudden pressure increases. It is absolutely inevitable that the pelvic floor anatomy should be well known, since the pelvic floor muscles undertake tasks such as holding urine and providing coordination by relaxing during voiding. Pelvic fascia is rich in elastic tissue and smooth muscle in addition to collagen. It plays an active role in the support of the pelvic organs and the functions of these organs. For this reason, it is thought that exercising the abdominal region muscles and pelvic region muscles in the problem of urinary incontinence will significantly support the prevention of the problem in individuals with this problem, and regular use of collagen will also benefit the individual in the fight against this ailment. AIM: The purpose of this scientific review is to review the existing literature on related research on the relationship between urinary incontinence, Kegel exercises applied to prevent urinary incontinence, Core Training and Collagen use. In addition to Kegel exercises applied to individuals in urinary incontinence disorders, Core area training and collagen use is to provide scientific support and guide to positively change the course of the disease. METHODS: The research was carried out with document analysis and scanning model. Document analysis involves the analysis of written materials containing information about the case or cases intended to be investigated. In the study, a literature review was conducted on urinary incontinence, Kegel exercises, Core training and Collagen. In the literature search, reliable science-based indexes such as Elseiver, Springer, Google Scholar, Pub Med, Med Gen, Tübitak, Yok National Thesis Center and Dergi Park were searched. RESULTS: In this review, the causes of urinary incontinence, its types, which gender it is more effective and treatment methods are presented as a result of literature review. In addition, Kegel exercises, which are at the beginning of the treatment methods, and supporting Core exercises are given as examples. CONCLUSION: In conclusion; Urinary incontinence, which is defined as urinary incontinence, is a disorder that is more common in women than in men. For this reason, it is important for women to take precautions especially in the face of situations that cause this ailment. Especially in the fight against this ailment, it can be recommended to apply Kegel exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, as well as to perform core training that provides the strength of the abdominal region to support this region and to work the internal balance muscles, and to use the collagen that is structurally in the pelvic fascia as a supportive nutrient. Corresponding Author
... Although traditional exercises such as sit-ups and curl-ups are widely used to strengthen the abdomen, they can also increase the risk of lower back injuries and potentially lead to degenerative spinal damage owing to increased pressure on the spine [11,12]. To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to engage in stability exercises that integrate the functional movements of the arms and legs to enhance abdominal activity [13]. ...
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Background and Objectives: Abdominal muscle exercises with limb movements are more effective for trunk stabilization than traditional exercises involving trunk flexion alone. This study examined the effects of abdominal exercises incorporating sprinter pattern and crunch exercises on changes in the lordotic curve and abdominal muscle activation in individuals with low back pain caused by hyperlordosis resulting from weak abdominal muscles. Materials and Methods: In this single-blind, randomized controlled trial, a total of 40 participants with hyperlordosis were recruited and randomly assigned to perform either sprinter-pattern abdominal exercises or crunch exercises. The participants assigned to each group performed three sets of ten abdominal exercises. The lumbar lordotic angle (LLA) and sacrohorizontal angle (SHA) were assessed prior to and following the intervention, whereas abdominal muscle activity was gauged throughout the intervention period. Changes in the LLA and SHA were measured by radiography. Abdominal muscle activity was measured using electromyography. Results: The LLA and SHA decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.001), while the sprinter-pattern exercise group showed a statistically significant decrease compared to the crunch exercise group (p < 0.001). In the activity of the abdominal muscles, there was no significant difference in the rectus abdominis muscle between the two groups (p > 0.005). However, a significant difference between the external and internal oblique muscles was observed, and the activities of both muscles were significantly higher in the sprinter-pattern exercise group than in the crunch exercise group (p < 0.005). Conclusions: Abdominal exercise using a sprinter pattern may be effective in reducing lumbar lordosis by strengthening the abdominal muscles in patients with hyperlordosis.
... The endurance of trunk muscles was evaluated using the McGill trunk endurance tests and they are highly reliable tests [7]. The tests were prone-bridge, right side-bridge, left side-bridge, trunk flexion and horizontal back extension tests. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background: Testing the association between trunk muscle endurance and chronic ankle instability (CAI) is very important to recognize risk factors related to CAI. This facilitates prevention of injury and management of the associated musculoskeletal deficits of CAI. Objective: to assess endurance of trunk muscles in females with CAI. Methods: This study consisted of 62 females, allocated into two equal groups of 31; the experimental group (A) included females with CAI and the healthy control (Group B) included healthy females. McGill core endurance tests (prone-bridge, right side-bridge, left side-bridge, trunk flexion and horizontal back extension) were administered to assess trunk muscle endurance. Results: Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in trunk muscle endurance between the two tested groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Although, the results indicated higher values of trunk endurance in the CAI group compared with their healthy controls, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups. This denotes the compensatory mechanism that altered ankle-hip strategy.
... Likewise, men showed a relationship between FMS TM and the change of direction. The association between FMS TM and agility in males may be attributed to the similar patterns of coordination between the tests (McGill, 2010). During maneuvers that require changing directions or completing tasks, the individual is tasked with maintaining their single leg stability and core activation, this is similar to the core activation and single leg stability required during the rotary motion and in-line lunge of the FMS TM (Prieske et al., 2016). ...
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Background: Soccer is the world's most popular sport for both men and women. Tests of athletic and functional performance are commonly used to assess physical ability and set performance goals. The Functional Movement Screen (FMS™) is a widely used seven-test battery developed by practitioners to provide interpretable measure of movement quality. The main objective of the present study was twofold, to analyze the relationship between FMSTM results from male and female soccer players and to compare their physical performance in different tests. Methods: A total of twenty-eight semi-professional soccer players: fourteen male (age: 21.29 ± 1.64 years; weight: 70.66 ± 5.29 kg; height: 171.86 ± 5.35 cm; BMI: 20.90 ± 2.22 kg/m2) and fourteen females (age: 20.64 ±1.98 years; weight: 63.44 ± 5.83 kg; height: 166.21 ± 12.18 cm; BMI: 23.02 ± 2.50 kg/m2) were recruited for this study. A paired sample t-test was used for determining differences as a repeated measures analysis. All the participants conducted the following tests: The Functional Movement Test (FMSTM), 10-meter linear sprint, 5-0-5 COD Test and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test – Level 1 (YYIRT Level 1). Results: A t-test with data from 505 COD (change of direction) test showed significant differences between groups, p=0.001, d=1.11, revealing faster times in male soccer players (2.50±0.19) in respect with female soccer players (2.70±0.17). Crucially, a t-test with data from FMS did not reveal significant differences between groups. Multiple regression for V02max revealed significant effects (r = 0.55, r2= 0.30, adjusted r2= 0.24, F= 5.21, p=0.04 and standard error= 2.20). On the other hand, multiple regression for 10-meter sprint showed significant effects (r = 0.58, r2= 0.33, adjusted r2= 0.28, F= 5.98, p=0.03). The impact of these factors on the correlation between FMSTM scores and physical performance measures can vary among individuals. Discussion/Conclusion: This study demonstrates the necessity of utilizing and applying multiple field-based tests to evaluate the movement and capabilities of physical performance in sports. Crucially, consider individual variations and factors such as training background, fitness level, and sport-specific demands when interpreting the relationship between the FMSTM and physical performance in both sexes.
... It was observed in the current study that the top jockeys had a greater level of core extensor strength and endurance than the other jockeys, indicating a greater utilisation of back core musculature in the jockey position. 'Core stiffness' in other sports is essential for injury prevention, performance enhancement and requires dedicated training [35]. Interesting, female jockeys also had greater core extensor and flexor strength than their male counterparts, which could indicate that they are recruiting these muscles in compensation for their relatively lower upper body strength and lower body power. ...
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Purpose Thoroughbred racing jockeys compete at maximum physiological capacity in a sport with a high risk of falls and injury. A greater understanding of the physical capacities determining jockey performance may lead to minimum physical performance parameters and corrective interventions to improve jockey fitness and performance and reduce jockey and horse injury. The aim of this study was to develop appropriate physical testing procedures for jockeys and a physical fitness profile for different licence levels. Methods Fifty-eight jockeys ( n = 24 females, n = 34 males), representing all apprentice jockeys licenced in New Zealand in 2021 (100%, n = 8 probationers and n = 39 apprentices) and eleven professional jockeys (14%) were assessed to determine baseline physiological and fitness data. Descriptive statistics and boxplots were used to compare aerobic fitness, abdominal (core), upper and lower body strength, muscular power, reaction time, flexibility and a novel ‘saddle’ test targeting lower body strength, balance, and endurance between licencing levels. Effect Size (ES) was used to determine magnitude of differences between groups. Results More experienced jockeys had greater relative lower body strength (ES = 0.2–0.7) and better balance (ES = 0.5–0.9) compared to the less experienced groups. Jockeys who were in the top 20 of the premiership table (jockey rankings) had faster reaction times (ES = 0.7) and greater core extensor strength (ES = 0.7) than other cohorts. Most tests showed little differentiation between jockey licence levels, however the ‘saddle test’ showed greater variability in the less experienced race riders. This test may be an effective measure of jockey baseline performance. Conclusions These data could be used to inform minimum jockey licencing requirements and future physical fitness training programmes to increase jockey physiological fitness, thereby minimising risk of falls or injury due to physiological deficits and performance.
... Core, spor bilimlerinde insan bedeninin ağırlık merkezini ifade eder ve core egzersizleri, karın, bel ve kalça kaslarını kontrol eden ve stabilizasyonu sağlayan egzersizleri içerir (Mcgill 2010, Savaş, 2013. Denge, vücudun duruşunu muhafaza etme yeteneğini ifade eder ve statik denge (sabit duruş) ile dinamik denge (hareket halinde denge) olmak üzere iki türü vardır (Kuşakoğlu, 2012). ...
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Bu çalışmanın amacı, core egzersizlerinin judocuların core kuvveti, statik ve dinamik denge üzerindeki etkisini araştırmaktır. Araştırmaya toplam 20 judocu (deney gurubu: n=10, kontrol gurubu: n=10) katılmıştır. Her iki grup sporcularının yaş, boy uzunluğu ve vücut ağırlıkları kaydedilmiştir. Performans ölçümleri, 8 haftalık antrenman programı öncesi ve sonrasında olmak üzere iki kez gerçekleştirilmiştir. Deney gurubu sporcuları, kulüp judo antrenmanlarına ek olarak haftada 3 defa 30-45 dakika core antrenmanı yapmışlardır. Kontrol grubu ise rutin kulüp antrenmanları dışında herhangi bir egzersiz yapmamıştır. Deney grubunda tüm performans değerleri arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı farklılıklar olduğunu göstermiştir (p
... O long stretch é um exercício de Pilates executado no reformer no qual o praticante posiciona os pés nos apoios de ombros do carrinho e as mãos agarradas à barra de pé, mantendo o corpo em uma posição horizontal, em prancha, enquanto os ombros realizam movimentos de flexão e extensão 1 . Tanto o long stretch quanto a prancha tradicional têm o objetivo de aumentar a força muscular, a resistência e a estabilidade dos músculos do tronco, do quadril e da pelve [2][3][4][5] . ...
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This study aimed to verify the effect of the spring constant change on the electromyographic activity of the powerhouse and shoulder muscles during the long stretch exercise. In total, 15 Pilates practitioners performed the Long Stretch exercise on the reformer with three different spring constants: (1) k=0.19kg/cm with 1 red spring; (2) k=0.27kg/cm with 1 red spring and 1 yellow; and (3) k=0.38kg/cm with 2 red springs. The Electromyographic activity of Rectus Abdominis (RA), External Oblique (EO), Internal Oblique/Transversus abdominis (OI/TS), Multifidus (MU), Iliocostalis (IC), Longissimus (LG), Lower Trapezius (LT), and Anterior Deltoid (AD) were evaluated. We observed that as the spring constant increases, the RA, OE, OI/TS muscles decrease their EMG activity, while the AD, LT, and LG increase their EMG activity. The MU and IC muscles were not influenced in their EMG activities. Therefore, we observed an influence of the change of the spring constant on the electromyographic activity of the RA, OE, OI/LG, AD, and LT muscles. However, we found no influence of the spring constant on the EMG activities of the MU and IC muscles during the long stretch. Keywords: Pilates; Electromyography; Muscle Stretching Exercises
... The long stretch is a Pilates exercise performed in the reformer, in which the practitioner positions the feet on the shoulder rests of the cart and the hands clinging to the standing bar, keeping the body in a horizontal position, on a plank, while the shoulders perform flexion and extension movements 1 . Both the long stretch and the traditional plank aim to increase muscle strength, endurance, and stability of the muscles of the trunk, hip, and pelvis [2][3][4][5] . ...
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This study aimed to verify the effect of the spring constant change on the electromyographic activity of the powerhouse and shoulder muscles during the long stretch exercise. In total, 15 Pilates practitioners performed the Long Stretch exercise on the reformer with three different spring constants: (1) k=0.19kg/cm with 1 red spring; (2) k=0.27kg/cm with 1 red spring and 1 yellow; and (3) k=0.38kg/cm with 2 red springs. The Electromyographic activity of Rectus Abdominis (RA), External Oblique (EO), Internal Oblique/Transversus abdominis (OI/TS), Multifidus (MU), Iliocostalis (IC), Longissimus (LG), Lower Trapezius (LT), and Anterior Deltoid (AD) were evaluated. We observed that as the spring constant increases, the RA, OE, OI/TS muscles decrease their EMG activity, while the AD, LT, and LG increase their EMG activity. The MU and IC muscles were not influenced in their EMG activities. Therefore, we observed an influence of the change of the spring constant on the electromyographic activity of the RA, OE, OI/LG, AD, and LT muscles. However, we found no influence of the spring constant on the EMG activities of the MU and IC muscles during the long stretch. Keywords: Pilates; Electromyography; Muscle Stretching Exercises
... are very important for stability and strength growth [13]. Exercises of the body's core region are an inseparable part of preparation and strength training. ...
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Purpose: The purpose of current review was investigating the effect of core stability exercises (CSE) on volleyball players. Methods: Current research was a PRISMA systematic review. It reviewed comprehensively the Impact of CSE on volleyball players. It carried out searching in Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, PEDro, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus databases and in Persian Google Scholar, Megapaper databases, IRANDOC, Magiran, SID, Medilib, IranMedex. The keywords in two groups including: Group 1: “Core stability exercise” OR “core stability training” OR “core stability endurance” OR “trunk stability” OR “central stability exercises” OR “core intervention” OR “core stability control” OR “core strengthening exercise” OR “trunk resistance exercise” and group 2: “Volleyball” OR “volleyball player“ OR “volleyball athletes” from 2000 to February of 2023. Current research used both English and Persian languages. Results: We got 146 articles. After removing duplicate titles, we selected 127 abstracts for review. Finally, 18 articles were included in the present review. Conclusion: The outcomes of current review show that CSE have the ability to improve movement capabilities, performance, and sports skills as well as prevent injuries from volleyball players. Of course, to interpret the outcomes of the current research caution needs to be taken, considering the restrictions such as the difference in the sample size under study, measurement methods, and components of different core stability protocols.
... İngilizce kökenlidir ve Türkçe karşılığı çekirdektir. Spor bilimleri alanında organizmanın ağırlık merkezi olarak nitelendirilmektedir (Günaydın ve Eliöz, 2020;McGill, 2010). Anatomik olarak core bölgesi, ön ve arka ana kas grupları olarak ayrılmaktadır. ...
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İtfaiyeciler, genellikle tehlikeli koşullar altında dinamik aktiviteler gerektiren olaylara müdahale etmektedirler. Olaylara müdahale ettikleri esnada denge sorunları sebebiyle düşüp yaralanmaktadırlar. Core kaslarındaki yorgunluğun, dinamik dengenin azalmasına sebep olduğu ve denge kayıpları ile sonuçlandığı yapılan çalışmalarda bildirilmektedir. Bu çalışma, iftaiyeci adaylarının core kas dayanıklılığı ile dinamik denge performansları arasındaki ilişkilerin değerlendirilmesi amacıyla planlanmıştır. Ortalama yaşları 19,11±1,34 yıl, ortalama boy uzunlukları 176,06±6,56 cm ve ortalama vücut ağırlıkları 69,36±12,25 kg olan, toplam 26 erkek itfaiyeci adayı, basit rastgele örnekleme yöntemi ile araştırma için seçilmiş ve araştırmaya gönüllü olarak katılmıştır. Katılımcılara antropometrik (boy uzunluğu, kol boyu uzunluğu, bacak boyu uzunluğu, vücut ağırlığı, beden kitle indeksi ve vücut yağ yüzdesi) ve performans (core kas dayanıklılığı ve dinamik denge) ölçümleri uygulanmıştır. İtfaiyeci adaylarında core kas dayanıklılığı ile dinamik denge kompozit skorları arasındaki ilişkiler incelendiğinde, gövde ekstansiyon ile alt ekstremite sağ kompozit (r=0.558, p<0.01) ve sol kompozit (r=0.597, p<0.01) skorları arasında doğrusal olarak orta düzeyde ilişkiler; gövde fleksiyon ile alt ekstremite sağ kompozit skoru arasında doğrusal olarak zayıf ilişki (r=0.419, p<0.05); yan köprü test skorları ile alt ekstremite sağ kompozit (r=0.492, p<0.05) ve sol kompozit (r=0.480, p<0.05) skorları arasında doğrusal olarak zayıf ilişkiler; yüzükoyun köprü test skorları ile alt ekstremite sağ kompozit (r=0.508, p<0.01) ve sol kompozit (r=0.506, p<0.01) skorları arasında doğrusal olarak orta düzeyde ilişkiler tespit edilmiştir. Sonuç olarak, core kas dayanıklılığının düşük olması itfaiyeci adayı öğrencilerin dinamik denge yeteneklerini olumsuz yönde etkilemektedir. Özellikle alt ekstremite dinamik denge yeteneği, core kas dayanıklılığından üst ekstremite denge yeteneğine kıyasla istatistiksel olarak daha fazla etkilenmektedir.
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Introduction: Each person has their walking style, which is influenced by many factors such as height, weight, stride length, and physical conditions such as leg length or possibly foot injuries that cause impairments in a person's walking This study aimed to analyze stride length and walking speed in students with ankle injuries. research methodology: The present study was a descriptive-comparative research. The sample used in this study were 20 sports science students with average age and BMI, who had a history of ankle injury based on the data and preliminary information provided during field observations. In this study, the kinematic data of walking, including step length and step time of students, were analyzed by KINOVEA software. Descriptive statistics including mean and standard deviation were used for data analysis using SPSS-27 software. Findings: The results of the research showed that there is no significant difference between the average stride length and speed in the left and right legs (P>0.05). However, this study showed that the stride length and speed of the left leg were faster than the right leg. When this sample is running, there is an imbalance between the right and left posture while walking. Limping can occur due to discomfort in the affected leg so it accelerates the movement to compensate for the pain. Conclusion: According to the results of this study, it can be said that ankle injuries cause a difference in length between the stride length of the injured leg and the uninjured leg. The difference in stride length may be due to limited movement of the affected leg.
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Introduction: Although participating in sports activities has positive effects on people, it can lead to various injuries in athletes. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of neuromuscular exercises on pain, proprioception, and balance in female runners with shin splints. Materials and Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 24 female runners with shin splints with an age range of 17 to 23 years were randomly divided into two control and experimental groups. In the pre-test, pain level, static and dynamic balance, and ankle proprioception were measured using a visual analog scale, stork balance test, Y balance test, and angle repositioning error test. Then, the subjects of the experimental group performed the exercises for 6 weeks. After completing the exercises, the post-test was performed similar to the pre-test. Results: The research results showed that after six weeks of neuromuscular exercises, there is a significant difference between the control and experimental groups in the post-test of pain, static and dynamic balance, and proprioception (P<0.05). Also, the results of the correlated t-test showed that there is a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test of pain, static and dynamic balance and proprioception after six weeks of neuromuscular exercises (P<0.05). Conclusion: According to the results obtained from the research, it is possible to suggest the use of neuromuscular exercises to reduce pain and improve balance and proprioception in female runners with shin splints. Keywords: Exercise therapy, Pain management, Core stability, Athletic Injuries
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Background: Being overweight is a major global health epidemic of the 20th and 21st centuries, which can affect the movement system function of older adult women. This study evaluated the effects of a breathing exercise based on motor development patterns on functional fitness and quality of life in overweight older adult women. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 40 community-dwelling women aged 65–75. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group, which completed a 6-week breathing exercise program (three supervised and three home-based sessions per week), or a control group, which maintained usual routines. Outcome measures included cardiovascular fitness, upper and lower body flexibility, muscle strength, dynamic balance, and quality of life, assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in cardiovascular fitness ( p < .001, ES = 0.652), upper body flexibility ( p < .001, ES = 0.652), lower body flexibility ( p < .001, ES = 0.538), upper body strength ( p < .001, ES = 0.538), lower body strength ( p < .001, ES = 0.538), and dynamic balance ( p < .001, ES = 0.475) compared to the control group. Quality of life also significantly improved in the intervention group ( p < .001, ES = 0.475). Conclusion: Breathing exercises based on motor development patterns significantly enhance functional fitness and quality of life in overweight older adult women. Incorporating these exercises into regular physical activity routines may promote health and independence in older adults. Further research should explore long-term benefits and optimal exercise parameters for older adults.
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The objective of this study is to assess the accuracy of ChatGPT's responses regarding core exercises through comparison with expert opinions. A total of 23 questions were asked to ChatGPT 3.5 about core exercises. Nine experts assessed the accuracy of the answers provided by ChatGPT for these questions using a 5-point Likert scale (5: strongly agree, 1: strongly disagree). The maximum possible score achievable through Likert scoring is 115, while the minimum score is 23. The answers of the artificial intelligence received an average of 3.93±0.46 (minimum: 3.48, maximum: 4.91) points. Experts rated ChatGPT's answers on a scale from 3.22±0.97 to 4.56±0.53, with varying degrees of quality. Despite having some shortcomings, ChatGPT has generally provided satisfactory answers regarding core exercises. Artificial intelligence has the potential to counsel individuals and assist healthcare professionals in enhancing health.
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Çocuklarda Oyunla Sürat Gelişimi Pelin AKYOL Genetik ve Spor Bade YAMAK Life Kinetik Egzersizlerinin Bilişsel Gelişim ve Performans Üzerine Etkileri Emrah YILMAZ Core Antrenmanı ve Denge Tolga ESEN Kız Çocuklarının Fiziksel Özellikleri ve Seçilmiş Performans Profillerinin İncelenmesi (Bingöl İli Örneği) Harun GENÇ Yüksek Şiddetli İnterval Antrenman Hasan SÖZEN Ceyhun KABAL Genel Bir Bakışla Vibrasyon Antrenmanı Barış GÜROL Gülsün GÜVEN Sporda Denge, Stabilizasyon, Postural Kontrol ve Core Merkezinin Önemi ve Antrenmanları İzzet UÇAN Hamilelere Yönelik Egzersiz Önerileri Mehmet İMAMOĞLU Hentbolda Atış Tekniğinin Kinematik Analizi Barış GÜROL Haltercilerde ve Sedanterlerde Ossa Antebrachıı'nin Biyometrik Ölçüm Değerlerinin Karşılaştırılması Mehmet Emin YILDIZ Kamil BEŞOLUK Yaşlı Bireylerde Düşmeyi Etkileyen Denge ve Denge Parametrelerinin İncelenmesi Mustafa Said ERZEYBEK Spor Bilimleri Fakültesi ile Diğer Fakültelerde Öğrenim Gören Öğrencilerin Beslenme Alışkanlıklarının Karşılaştırılması Osman İMAMOĞLU Deniz Özge YÜCELOĞLU KESKİN Çocuklarda Psikomotor Gelişim ve Kuvvet Pelin AKYOL Ramazan Orucunun Kalp Atım Hızı ve Kalp Atım Hızı Toparlanması Üzerine Olan Etkisi Sercan ÖNCEN Elit Güreşçilerde Maksimal Kuvvet Antrenmanlarının Bağışıklık Sistemi Üzerine Etkileri Serhat ÖZBAY Nurcan DEMİREL Eğitsel Oyunla Desteklenen Voleybol Antrenmanlarının 10-14 Yaş Erkek Öğrencilerin Seçilmiş Motorik Özelliklerine Etkisi Yakup AKTAŞ Engellilerde Ölçme ve Değerlendirme Esasları, Ders ve Program Değerlendirmeleri Yüksel SAVUCU Ali Serdar YÜCEL Hazırlık Döneminde Voleybolculara Uygulanan Kuvvet Antrenmanlarının Servis Hızına Etkisinin İncelenmesi Yunus Emre BAĞIŞ Sinan AKIN
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OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to determine whether suspension training can be an effective intervention in improving functional movement in healthy adult men.METHODS The recruited subjects of Twenty healthy adult men without musculoskeletal diseases were divided into group that performed TRX exercise (n=10) and a group that performed traditional OKC exercise using a resistance machine (n=10). The variables were the deep squat, hurdle step, inline lunge, shoulder mobility, leg raise, push-up, and rotational stability after an 8-week exercise program. The total score of the 7 movements was calculated to compare and analyze the before-and-after changes in FMS score. All the data obtained in this study were analyzed with SPSS package (ver 21.0). To examine the effects of the suspension training program used in this study, Repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to compare the effects before and after the participation in the program.RESULTS The research results are as follows; The results of the FMS evaluation scores showed no significant differences between the TRX group and the OKC group in the deep squat, hurdle step, inline lunge, shoulder mobility, leg raise, and push-up evaluations, and no interaction effect was found. However, the rotational stability evaluation score showed higher scores in the TRX group after training, showing a significant interaction effect (p<.001). The change in total evaluation score also significantly increased in the TRX group (p<.05), but there was no significant difference in the OKC group.CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, rotational stability and total evaluation scores increased after training in the TRX group. In particular, TRX training using suspension may be more effective than traditional forms of training using resistance exercise equipment for people who have instability in the multi-plane stability of the pelvis, core, and shoulder girdle, which are involved in rotational stability.
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The objective of this review was to systematically summarize the existing literature on the effect of core muscle training on measures of balance and agility in athletes. A search was conducted to identify the eligible articles on core muscle training, balance, agility, and athletes in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database that were published from inception to April 15, 2022. The literature search retrieved 3,299 articles, of which 17 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria of the review. Two reviewers independently performed study selection and assessed the quality of included studies using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale, and a third reviewer was consulted in case of disagreements. The quality of the studies was mixed. Core muscle training can be used to target balance and agility in athletes. Furthermore, core training of variable frequency, intensity, and type can be incorporated in athletic programs to improve balance and agility.
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The role of the upper limbs in the common plank exercises is considered a limiting factor in targeting the core muscles. The purpose of this study was to investigate the core muscles activation in plank with and without support on upper limbs during different body angles. Twenty-one healthy men aged 20-30 participated in this study. The subjects performed the plank in two positions with support on the upper limb (by the TRX suspension device) and without support on the upper limb (by the researcher-made device) at 20, 40, 60 and 80 of body angles. Every eight tests were repeated twice for 5 seconds. The activity of rectus abdominis, external oblique, multifidus, erector spinae lumbar, and rectus femoris muscles were measured and compared. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to examine the effects of upper limb on our outcomes. The results showed that there is no difference on core muscles activity between plank with and without support on upper limbs during different body angles (p=0.821). Changing the body angle (20, 40, 60 and 80 degrees) showed a main different on the core muscles activity in the both plank positions with and without support on upper limbs (P≤0.05). Not using the upper limbs in the plank exercises does not change the activity of the core muscles, and also the level of their activity increases through the gradual addition in the body angle.
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The ProFitter 3-D Cross Trainer is a labile surface device used in the clinic and claimed to train spine stability. The purpose of this study was to quantify the spine mechanics (compression and shear forces and stability), together with muscle activation mechanics (surface electromyography) of the torso and hip, during three ProFitter exercises. Trunk muscle activity was relatively low while exercising on the device (<25%MVC). Gluteus medius activity was phasic with the horizontal sliding position, especially for an experienced participant. Sufficient spinal stability was achieved in all three exercise conditions. Peak spinal compression values were below 3400 N (maximum 3188 N) and peak shear values were correspondingly low (under 500 N). The exercises challenge whole-body dynamic balance while producing very conservative spine loads. The motion simultaneously integrates hip and torso muscles in a way that appears to ensure stabilizing motor patterns in the spine. This information will assist with clinical decision making about the utility of the device and exercise technique in rehabilitation and training programs.
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Three years ago, an 18-month randomized controlled trial of chronic, nonspecific low back pain investigated the effectiveness of instructing subjects to restrict bending activities in the early morning, when the fluid content in the disc is increased. Pain days (as recorded by daily diaries) were reduced 23% in the treatment group, compared to a 2% reduction in the control (sham treatment) group. The purpose of the current follow-up study was to determine whether the results of that trial were maintained during the 3 years following completion of the trial. A questionnaire was mailed to the 60 subjects who completed the original trial. Fifty subjects completed the questionnaire for a response rate of 83%. Thirty-one subjects (62%) continued to restrict bending activities in the early morning, and experienced a further reduction of 10.1 pain days per month (51%) since the completion of the experiment. However, some of the subjects who did not continue to comply also improved. Several possible explanations for the improvement of noncompliant subjects are offered.
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A cross-sectional retrospective study was made of currently asymptomatic workers who perform physically demanding jobs. To further quantify the association between various biomechanical, physiological, personal psychosocial and motor control parameters that linger due to a history of low back disorders. Seventy-two workers were recruited from heavy industry, 26 of whom had a history of disabling low back disorders (LBDs) sufficient to miss work while the others did not. The strength of the study lies in the many detailed variables measured. Having a history of low back disorders was found to be associated with a larger waist girth, a greater potential for low back pain chronicity as predicted from psychosocial questionnaires, perturbed flexion to extension strength and endurance ratios, and widespread motor control deficits across a variety of tasks, some of which resulted in high back loads. In those workers who had missed work due to back disorders, the length of time since their last disabling episode was 261 weeks on average, suggesting that multiple deficits may remain for a period of time. Having a history of LBD is associated with changes in attitudes, in body composition, and in the way people move, load their backs and respond to a variety of motor and stability challenges.
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The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to examine the usefulness of the addition of specific stabilization exercises to a general back and abdominal muscle exercise approach for patients with subacute or chronic nonspecific back pain by comparing a specific muscle stabilization-enhanced general exercise approach with a general exercise-only approach. Fifty-five patients with recurrent, nonspecific back pain (stabilization-enhanced exercise group: n=29, general exercise-only group: n=26) and no clinical signs suggesting spinal instability were recruited. Both groups received an 8-week exercise intervention and written advice (The Back Book). Outcome was based on self-reported pain (Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire), disability (Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire), and cognitive status (Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, Pain Locus of Control Scale) measured immediately before and after intervention and 3 months after the end of the intervention period. Outcome measures for both groups improved. Furthermore, self-reported disability improved more in the general exercise-only group immediately after intervention but not at the 3-month follow-up. There were generally no differences between the 2 exercise approaches for any of the other outcomes. A general exercise program reduced disability in the short term to a greater extent than a stabilization-enhanced exercise approach in patients with recurrent nonspecific low back pain. Stabilization exercises do not appear to provide additional benefit to patients with subacute or chronic low back pain who have no clinical signs suggesting the presence of spinal instability.
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The importance of function of the central core of the body for stabilisation and force generation in all sports activities is being increasingly recognised. ‘Core stability’ is seen as being pivotal for efficient biomechanical function to maximise force generation and minimise joint loads in all types of activities ranging from running to throwing. However, there is less clarity about what exactly constitutes ‘the core’, either anatomically or physiologically, and physical evaluation of core function is also variable. ‘Core stability’ is defined as the ability to control the position and motion of the trunk over the pelvis to allow optimum production, transfer and control of force and motion to the terminal segment in integrated athletic activities. Core muscle activity is best understood as the pre-programmed integration of local, single-joint muscles and multi-joint muscles to provide stability and produce motion. This results in proximal stability for distal mobility, a proximal to distal patterning of generation of force, and the creation of interactive moments that move and protect distal joints. Evaluation of the core should be dynamic, and include evaluation of the specific functions (trunk control over the planted leg) and directions of motions (three-planar activity). Rehabilitation should include the restoring of the core itself, but also include the core as the base for extremity function.
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The objective of this study was to analyze the trunk muscle activation patterns, spine kinematics, and lumbar compressive forces that occur when using the Bodyblade, a popular tool in physical medicine clinics. The participants were 14 male subjects who were healthy and who were recruited from a university population. With data collected from surface electromyography of selected trunk and shoulder muscles, video analysis, and a 3-dimensional lumbar spine position sensor, modeling methods were used to quantify L4-5 compressive forces and spine stability. Large-amplitude oscillation of a vertically oriented Bodyblade resulted in the greatest activation levels of the internal oblique and external oblique muscles (average amplitude=48% and 26% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction, respectively), which were associated with L4-5 compressive forces as high as 4,328 N. Instantaneous stability increased with well-coordinated effort, muscle activation, and compression, but decreased when subjects had poor technique. The way the Bodyblade is used may either enhance or compromise spine stability. Associated lumbar compressive forces may be inappropriate for some people with compression-intolerant lumbar spine pathology.
Article
Since most previous reports of EMG activation profiles from psoas and the abdominal wall have been qualitative, the objective of this work was to document myoelectric activity from these deep muscles. This knowledge is required to assist in choosing specific training exercises and for making rehabilitation decisions that require knowledge of normalized and calibrated muscle activation levels in different tasks. Intramuscular EMG was collected from five men and three women, in whom amplitudes were normalized to maximum contraction efforts and reported over a wide variety of clinical and rehabilitation tasks. Electrodes were inserted into vertebral portions of psoas and the three layers of the abdominal wall. Normalized signal amplitudes were reported as peak levels and time histories. All forms of sit-ups activated psoas (15-35% MVC) more than the curl-up (<10%); psoas was not highly activated during barbell lifting of loads up to 100 kg (< 16% MVC); psoas was most active during maximal hip flexion efforts; push-ups activated psoas up to 25% MVC. Several isometric abdominal exercises were evaluated using the criteria of maximizing abdominal activation while minimizing psoas activity: the side (bridge) support exercise proved the best training method for the abdominal wall. Consideration of deep muscle activity, provided in this report, is important for choosing the most appropriate rehabilitation and training program for an individual. Specific guidance is provided for choosing the best abdominal exercise, together with activation profiles during lifting, during twisting, and during hip rotation.
Article
Epidemiological studies have found associations between lifting, lifting and twisting and twisting alone with increased incidence of disc herniation. This study investigated the role of repeated dynamic axial torque/twist combined with repeated flexion on the disc herniation mechanism. Porcine cervical spines were tested in one of the following four testing protocols: flexion-extension only; axial torque/twist only; flexion-extension followed by axial torque/twist; or axial torque/twist followed by flexion-extension. Plane film radiographs and computed tomography with contrast in the nucleus were obtained at regular intervals during and following the mechanical testing process together with final dissection to determine the disc injury patterns. Axial torque/twist in combination with repetitive flexion extension motion, regardless of order, encouraged radial delamination within the annulus (67.5% of specimens). Alternatively, repetitive flexion motion alone encouraged posterior or posterolateral nucleus tracking through the annulus. Axial torque/twist alone was unable to initiate a disc herniation. Both X-ray images with contrast and computed tomography were not good at detecting radial delamination observed during dissection. The clinical relevance is that twisting may cause more radial delamination while repeated flexion causes more posterior tracking of the nucleus giving guidance for both prevention and rehabilitation decisions. In addition, X-ray images with contrast are not effective at detecting the radial delamination which was exacerbated by combined loading in flexion extension and axial torque/twist.
Article
The objective of this study was to investigate 3 different rowing exercises and quantify the muscle activation of the torso and the hip musculature, together with the corresponding spinal loading and stiffness. Seven healthy male subjects from a university population were instrumented to obtain surface electromyography of selected trunk and hip muscles and to obtain spine position using an electromagnetic spine position sensor, together with video analysis to calculate joint moments. The 3 rowing exercises investigated are the inverted row, standing bent-over row, and the standing 1-armed cable row. The inverted row elicited the highest activation of the latissimus dorsi muscles, upper back, and hip extensor muscles. The lower activation of the lumbar erector spinae muscles during the inverted row corresponded to the lower-spine load measured. The standing bent-over row produced large activation symmetrically across the back but produced the largest lumbar spine load. The 1-armed cable row challenged the torsional capabilities of the trunk musculature. Some "core" exercises may be better for rehabilitation (e.g., having the training goals of modest muscle activation with low spine load), while other exercises may be better for athletic training (e.g., resulting in higher muscle activation and larger spine load). When prescribing "core" exercises, those wishing to spare the low back may choose the inverted row given the lowest spine load exercise. The standing bent-over row elicited large muscle activation symmetrically from the upper to lower back, however induced larger spine loads, but not surprisingly the highest spine stiffness. If torsional endurance or strength is the training goal, the 1-armed cable row might be considered.
Article
Strongman events are attracting more interest as training exercises because of their unique demands. Further, strongman competitors sustain specific injuries, particularly to the back. Muscle electromyographic data from various torso and hip muscles, together with kinematic measures, were input to an anatomically detailed model of the torso to estimate back load, low-back stiffness, and hip torque. Events included the farmer's walk, super yoke, Atlas stone lift, suitcase carry, keg walk, tire flip, and log lift. The results document the unique demands of these whole-body events and, in particular, the demands on the back and torso. For example, the very large moments required at the hip for abduction when performing a yoke walk exceed the strength capability of the hip. Here, muscles such as quadratus lumborum made up for the strength deficit by generating frontal plane torque to support the torso/pelvis. In this way, the stiffened torso acts as a source of strength to allow joints with insufficient strength to be buttressed, resulting in successful performance. Timing of muscle activation patterns in events such as the Atlas stone lift demonstrated the need to integrate the hip extensors before the back extensors. Even so, because of the awkward shape of the stone, the protective neutral spine posture was impossible to achieve, resulting in substantial loading on the back that is placed in a weakened posture. Unexpectedly, the super yoke carry resulted in the highest loads on the spine. This was attributed to the weight of the yoke coupled with the massive torso muscle cocontraction, which produced torso stiffness to ensure spine stability together with buttressing the abduction strength insufficiency of the hips. Strongman events clearly challenge the strength of the body linkage, together with the stabilizing system, in a different way than traditional approaches. The carrying events challenged different abilities than the lifting events, suggesting that loaded carrying would enhance traditional lifting-based strength programs. This analysis also documented the technique components of successful, joint-sparing, strongman event strategies.
Article
To investigate alterations in trunk muscle timing patterns in subgroups of patients with mechanical low back pain (MLBP). Our hypothesis was that subjects with MLBP would demonstrate delayed muscle onset and have fewer muscles functioning in a feedforward manner than the control group. We further hypothesized that we would find differences between subgroups of our patients with MLBP, grouped according to diagnosis (segmental instability and noninstability). Case-control. Laboratory. Forty-three patients with chronic MLBP (25 instability, 18 noninstability) and 39 asymptomatic controls. Not applicable. Surface electromyography was used to measure onset time of 10 trunk muscles during a self-perturbation task. Trunk muscle onset latency relative to the anterior deltoid was calculated and the number of muscles functioning in feedforward determined. Activation timing patterns (P<.01; eta=.50; 1-beta=.99) and number of muscles functioning in feedforward (P=.02; eta=.30; 1-beta=.83) were statistically different between patients with MLBP and controls. The control group activated the external oblique, lumbar multifidus, and erector spinae muscles in a feedforward manner. The heterogeneous MLBP group did not activate the trunk musculature in feedforward, but responded with significantly delayed activations. MLBP subgroups demonstrated significantly different timing patterns. The noninstability MLBP subgroup activated trunk extensors in a feedforward manner, similar to the control group, but significantly earlier than the instability subgroup. Lack of feedforward activation of selected trunk musculature in patients with MLBP may result in a period of inefficient muscular stabilization. Activation timing was more impaired in the instability than the noninstability MLBP subgroup. Training specifically for recruitment timing may be an important component of the rehabilitation program.
Article
The purpose of this study was to document the muscle activity and spine motion during several tasks requiring rapid abdominal contraction. Eight healthy men from a university population were instrumented to obtain surface electromyography of selected trunk and hip muscles, together with video analysis to calculate joint moments and electromagnetic lumbar spine position sensor to track spine posture. Exercises included a punch, throw, and a ballistic torso-stiffening maneuver. This study found that no muscle turned on significantly before any other muscle during both the 1-in. punch and ballistic torso-stiffening maneuver. Conversely, there was a significant order or muscle onset during the baseball throw. Muscles reached peak activation significantly before any other muscle during the baseball throw and 1-in. punch, but there were no significant differences for the torso-stiffening maneuver. The exercises quantified in this study demonstrated how muscle contraction dynamics change to meet differing demands for stiffening, for force/moment production, and for rapid movements. Specifically, it seems that there is an order of contraction when movement is the goal but not when just spine stability is required. Thus, a different intensity of abdominal bracing is required to achieve the different objectives of sports tasks and exercises.
Article
The purpose of this study was to document the muscle activity, spine motion, spine load, and stiffness during several movement-based or "functional" exercises and to assess the effect of technique change. Eight subjects, all healthy men from a university population, were instrumented to obtain surface electromyography of selected trunk and hip muscles, together with video analysis and electromagnetic lumbar spine position sensor to track spine posture. Exercises included a walkout in the sagittal plane that compared an upright form against a wall with those performed on the floor, overhead cable pushes, lateral cable walkouts, the good morning exercise, and the bowler's squat. Generally, muscle activation levels were quite modest even though the tasks were quite strenuous in many cases. Even though similar joint moments were required in different exercises, the pattern of activity between muscles was different. Abdominal bracing increased spine stiffness at the expense of more spine load. Thus, muscle activity seems to be constrained in "functional" exercises. There are several possible reasons for this. Single muscles cannot be activated to 100% of the maximum voluntary contraction in functional exercises because this would upset the balance of moments about the 3 orthopedic axes of the spine, or it would upset the balance of stiffening muscles around the spine required to ensure stability of the spinal column. The one exception was the floor walkout, which resulted in full activation of the rectus abdominis; however, this was a sagittal plane task without the joint moment constraints of multiplanar exercise. Therefore, maximal muscle activity is observed during single-plane tasks, but muscle activation levels were constrained during functional tasks. Thus, strength training muscles may not help in "functional multiplanar" tasks. These data can be used to assist decisions regarding the selection of exercises, specifically choices regarding the starting challenge, progression, exercise form, and possibly corrective technique for those who have spine concerns, or those simply looking for performance enhancement.
Article
McGill, SM, Karpowicz, A, Fenwick, CMJ, and Brown, SHM. Exercises for the torso performed in a standing posture: spine and hip motion and motor patterns and spine load. J Strength Cond Res 23(2): xxx-xxx, 2009-The purpose of this study was to document the muscle activity, spine motion, spine load, and stiffness during several movement-based or "functional" exercises and to assess the effect of technique change. Eight subjects, all healthy men from a university population, were instrumented to obtain surface electromyography of selected trunk and hip muscles, together with video analysis and electromagnetic lumbar spine position sensor to track spine posture. Exercises included a walkout in the sagittal plane that compared an upright form against a wall with those performed on the floor, overhead cable pushes, lateral cable walkouts, the good morning exercise, and the bowler's squat. Generally, muscle activation levels were quite modest even though the tasks were quite strenuous in many cases. Even though similar joint moments were required in different exercises, the pattern of activity between muscles was different. Abdominal bracing increased spine stiffness at the expense of more spine load. Thus, muscle activity seems to be constrained in "functional" exercises. There are several possible reasons for this. Single muscles cannot be activated to 100% of the maximum voluntary contraction in functional exercises because this would upset the balance of moments about the 3 orthopedic axes of the spine, or it would upset the balance of stiffening muscles around the spine required to ensure stability of the spinal column. The one exception was the floor walkout, which resulted in full activation of the rectus abdominis; however, this was a sagittal plane task without the joint moment constraints of multiplanar exercise. Therefore, maximal muscle activity is observed during single-plane tasks, but muscle activation levels were constrained during functional tasks. Thus, strength training muscles may not help in "functional multiplanar" tasks. These data can be used to assist decisions regarding the selection of exercises, specifically choices regarding the starting challenge, progression, exercise form, and possibly corrective technique for those who have spine concerns, or those simply looking for performance enhancement.
Article
The objective of this study was to investigate 3 different rowing exercises and quantify the muscle activation of the torso and the hip musculature, together with the corresponding spinal loading and stiffness. Seven healthy men from a university population were instrumented to obtain surface electromyography of selected trunk and hip muscles and to obtain spine position using an electromagnetic spine position sensor, together with video analysis to calculate joint moments. The 3 rowing exercises investigated were the inverted row, standing bent-over row, and standing 1-armed cable row. The inverted row elicited the highest activation of the latissimus dorsi muscles, upper-back, and hip extensor muscles. The lower activation of the lumbar erector spinae muscles during the inverted row corresponded to the lower spine load measured. The standing bent-over row produced large activation symmetrically across the back, but it produced the largest lumbar spine load. The 1-armed cable row challenged the torsional capabilities of the trunk musculature. Some core exercises may be better for rehabilitation (e.g., having the training goals of modest muscle activation with low spine load), whereas other exercises may be better for athletic training (e.g., resulting in higher muscle activation and larger spine load). When prescribing core exercises, those wishing to spare the low back may choose the inverted row, given the lowest spine load exercise. The standing bent-over row elicited large muscle activation symmetrically from the upper to lower back; it induced larger spine loads but also, not surprisingly, the highest spine stiffness. If torsional endurance or strength is the training goal, the 1-armed cable row might be considered.
Article
To quantify several forms of the curl-up, side-bridge, and birddog exercises (muscle activity and 3-dimensional [3D] spine position) including some corrective techniques to assist clinical decision-making. A basic science study of a convenience sample with a retest of expert intervention. Spine Biomechanics Laboratory/Research Clinic. Healthy men (N=8) performed the exercises, and 5 subjects repeated the exercises as an expert applied corrective techniques. Not applicable. Surface electromyography of selected trunk and hip muscles together with video analysis and 3D spine posture were collected. Comparison of muscle activation levels showed there were justifiable progressions in each exercise form. In general, bracing of the abdominal wall enhanced activation of the obliques, but different techniques caused migration of muscle activity to other muscles. Examples of specific findings include the following. Movement during these traditionally isometric exercises such as drawing squares with the hand/foot while in the birddog posture enhances activation of many muscle groups. Breathing while holding the isometric exercises had differing effects on muscle activation which was exercise dependent. Some corrective exercise techniques, such as fascial raking, substantially changed relative activation between muscles in the abdominal wall. The data presented in this study may be used to guide the clinical decision process when choosing a specific exercise form together with selecting the correct starting level, a logical progression, suitable dosage, and possible corrective technique to enhance tolerance of a patient.
Article
In situ testing of the rat abdominal wall. To test the ability of muscularly generated force and stiffness to be transmitted between the layers of the abdominal wall. The abdominal wall is comprised of 3 obliquely oriented sheet-like muscles bound together through a connective tissue network. This anatomic arrangement would seem ideal to facilitate myofascial force transmission, which if present would indicate shear connections between the muscle layers that could have important mechanical consequences. In 10 Sprague-Dawley rats, the 3 layers of the abdominal wall were isolated together and attached to a servomotor force/displacement system. The abdominal wall was stimulated via electrodes over the surface of the transverse abdominis, and measures of force and stiffness were obtained. The aponeurosis attaching the transverse abdominis to the rectus sheath was then cut and the wall was restimulated and the same measures were again obtained. Active force and stiffness were both reduced in the cut aponeurosis state. These drops were much lower (10.6% and 10.7%, respectively) than would be expected if the transverse abdominis were completely removed. Furthermore, a control group (5 rats), in which the aponeurosis was not cut, but a similar amount of time to that necessary to perform the aponeurosis surgery was allowed to elapse, showed reductions in active force and stiffness (7.9 and 8.2, respectively) nearing that seen in the cut state. This indicates that at least a portion of this drop was due to the passage of time in the compromised surgical state. It was concluded that the majority of the force and stiffness generated by the transverse abdominis was transferred through the connective tissue network adhering to the internal oblique muscle. This indicates the presence of strong shear connections between the muscular layers, which suggests a composite stiffening function of the architectural design.
Article
Low-back pain (LBP) in women gymnasts is relatively common. This investigation was performed to evaluate the effects of a preseason training program for the trunk extensor, lateral flexor, and flexor muscles on LBP occurrence during the subsequent competitive season. The training group consisted of 15 collegiate women gymnasts. The control group consisted of 15 nonathlete collegiate women. Pre- and posttesting for all participants consisted of static endurance tests for the trunk extensors, lateral flexors, and flexors. After pretesting, the training group completed 10 weeks of biweekly training consisting of non-foot-supported back extensions and side bridges, in addition to their usual trunk flexor exercises. The control group did not perform any specialized trunk muscle training. Mean improvements in trunk endurance, based on multivariate analysis of variance at the 5% level of significance, were significantly greater in the training group than in the control group. Mean improvements in endurance in the training group were 47 seconds for the lateral trunk flexors, 34 seconds for the trunk extensors, and 80 seconds for the trunk flexors. During the subsequent gymnastics season, none of the gymnasts reported new episodes of LBP. One gymnast with chronic LBP reported a recurrence of LBP during the season. None of the gymnasts reported that the training program adversely affected their gymnastic performance. These data suggest that training the trunk musculature twice per week during a 10-week period with a relatively simple floor exercise protocol was an effective stimulus to improve trunk endurance measures. It is encouraging that none of the gymnasts reported new episodes of LBP during the subsequent competitive gymnastics season.
Article
Abdominal exercises are prescribed for both the prevention and treatment of low back injury. However, these exercises sometimes appear to have hazardous effects on the lumbar spine. The purpose of this study was to identify quantitatively abdominal exercises that optimize the challenge to the abdominal muscles (rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique) but impose minimal load penalty to the lumbar spine. Nine volunteers performed 12 different abdominal exercises. For a given task the maximum abdominal muscle EMG value was divided by the maximum compression value, resulting in an abdominal challenge versus spinal compression cost index. In general, the partial curl-ups generated the highest muscle challenge-to-spine cost indices. However, those exercises that generated the best challenge-to-cost indices did not necessarily record the lowest compression levels along with the highest EMG activations. No single exercise was found that optimally trained all of the abdominal muscles while at the same time incurring minimal intervertebral joint loads. It was concluded that a variety of selected abdominal exercises are required to sufficiently challenge all of the abdominal muscles and that these exercises will-differ to best meet the different training objectives of individuals.
Article
There have been no previous studies that quantitatively assessed the load on the spine during extensor exercises. The purpose of our study was to investigate the loading of the lumbar spine and trunk muscle activity levels while subjects performed typical trunk extensor exercises. Thirteen male volunteers (mean age = 21.0 years, SD = 1.0, range = 19-23; mean height = 176.0 cm, SD = 6.2, range = 165-188; mean mass = 77.0 kg, SD = 7.0, range = 63-89) participated. The subjects performed four different back exercises. Electromyographic (EMG) activity was recorded from 14 trunk muscles. The postures that corresponded to the maximum external moment were identified and quantified using rigid body modeling combined with an EMG-driven model to determine joint loading at the L4-5 joint. The exercises were then evaluated based on the lumbar spine loading and peak muscle activity levels. A reference task of lifting 10 kg from midthigh was included for comparison. The exercises involving active trunk extension produced the highest joint forces and muscle activity levels. Exercises involving leg extension with the spine held isometrically demonstrated asymmetrical activity of the trunk muscles, thereby reducing loads on the spine. The back extensor exercises examined provided a wide range of joint loading and muscle activity levels. Single-leg extension tasks appear to constitute a low-risk exercise for initial extensor strengthening, given the low spine load and mild extensor muscle challenge. When combined with contralateral arm extensions, the challenge and demand of the exercise were increased. The compressive loading and extensor muscle activity levels were highest for the trunk extension exercises.
Article
Despite the wide variety of exercises that are prescribed for the low back, the scientific foundation to justify their choice is not as complete as one may think, or expect. Thus, the clinician must often call upon "clinical opinion" when selecting exercise. Given that low back tissues may need stressing to enhance their health but too much loading can be detrimental, choosing the optimal exercise requires judgment based on clinical experience and scientific evidence. To assist in developing better exercise programs, this review documents some recent biomechanical evidence from my laboratory and from laboratories of other researchers that has been reported in various publications in an attempt to update clinicians on issues of low back exercise. Among the issues examined are mechanisms of injury; the relative importance of "strength" (ie, maximum force a muscle can produce during a single exertion to create joint torque), "flexibility," and "endurance"; and training to enhance stability. Finally, some specific exercises are described that have been shown to challenge muscle and enhance performance but that are performed in such a way as to minimize loading of the spine to reduce the risk of injury exacerbation. These exercises form a basic program for rehabilitation and maintenance of low back health.
Article
Eighteen-month, randomized controlled trial with partial crossover. To test the hypothesis that the control of lumbar flexion in the early morning will significantly reduce chronic, nonspecific low back pain. Previous studies have indicated an increased risk of low back pain with bending forward in the early morning, primarily because of increased fluid content in the intervertebral discs at that time. After 6 months of recording baseline data, 85 subjects with persistent or recurring low back pain were randomly assigned to treatment and control groups. The treatment group received instruction in the control of early morning lumbar flexion. The control group received a sham treatment of six exercises shown to be ineffective in reducing low back pain. Six months later, the control group received the experimental treatment, Diaries were used to record daily levels of pain intensity, disability, impairment, and medication usage. Significant reductions in pain intensity (P < 0.01) were recorded for the treatment group, but not for the control group (point estimate, 33%; 95% confidence interval, 11-55%). After receiving the experimental treatment, the control group responded with similar reductions (P < 0.05). Significant reductions also were observed in total days in pain, disability, impairment, and medication usage. Controlling lumbar flexion in the early morning is a form of self-care with potential for reducing pain and costs associated with chronic, nonspecific low back pain.
Article
Owing to the recent interest in torso stabilization exercises together with many questions regarding the duration of prolonged isometric holds in occupational settings, the authors attempted to assess the level of back muscle oxygenation during prolonged isometric contractions. Specifically, this study recorded relative oxygen saturation of haemoglobin/myoglobin using Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) in the L3 erector mass during prolonged isometric contractions at intensities from 2 to 30% of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). It was hypothesized that available oxygen to these muscles is severely compromised even at moderate levels of activation observed in occupational work. Eight volunteers without a history of lower back pain or injury participated in this study. The exercise task involved isometric contraction of the lower erector spinae at five different levels of each subject's maximal voluntary contraction: 2, 5, 10, 20 and 30% MVC, presented in random order. Subjects were placed in a sitting position, with a curved plastic plate secured horizontally to the pelvis to minimize movement at the hip joint. During extensor exertions, they were restrained with a harness that was attached at chest level to a load cell. Each isometric contraction was performed for 30 s followed by 1 min of rest. All levels of contraction demonstrated reduction in oxygen. Given the concern for motion artefact on the NIRS signal, sham trials were conducted where the subjects went through the procedure of attaching the pulling cable but no active pull was performed. These trials showed no change in the NIRS signal. At this time NIRS appears to be the only non-invasive instrumentation available to indicate total available muscle oxygen during low level, prolonged work. Although the specific tissue volume sampled by NIRS cannot be positively identified, it appears that tissue oxygenation in the lumbar extensor musculature is reduced as a function of contraction intensity, even at levels as low as 2% of MVC. These data have implications for prolonged work where postures requiring isometric contractions are sometimes held for hours, and where musculoskeletal illness has been linked to prolonged contraction levels above 2%MVC--these data suggest a possible biological pathway.
Article
To determine whether repeated motion with low magnitude joint forces, and flexion/extension moments consistently produce herniation in a non-degenerated, controlled porcine spine motion segment. Combined loading (flexion/extension motions and compressive forces) was applied to in vitro porcine functional spinal units. Biomechanical and radiographic characteristics were documented. While most studies performed in vitro have examined uniaxial or fixed position loading to older specimens, there have been few studies that have examined whether 'healthy' intervertebral discs can be injured by low magnitude repeated combined loading. Porcine cervical spine motion segments (C3-C4) were mounted in a custom jig which applied axial compressive loads with pure flexion/extension moments. Dynamic testing was conducted to a maximum of 86400 bending cycles at a rate of 1 Hz with simultaneous torques, angular rotations, axial deformations recorded for the duration of the test. Herniation (posterior and posterior-lateral regions of the annulus) occurred with relatively modest joint compression but with highly repetitive flexion/extension moments. Increased magnitudes of axial compressive force resulted in more frequent and more severe disc injuries. The results support the notion that intervertebral disc herniation may be more linked to repeated flexion extension motions than applied joint compression, at least with younger, non-degenerated specimens. Relevance. While intervertebral disc herniations are observed clinically, consistent reproduction of this injury in the laboratory has been elusive. This study was designed to examine the biomechanical response and failure mechanics of spine motion segments to highly repetitive low magnitude complex loading.
Article
Observational case control design. To examine muscle response to sudden trunk loading in athletes with and without a recent history of acute low back injury (LBI). Impaired neuromuscular function is associated with chronic low back pain. This study examined whether such impairment persists after recovery from an acute LBI. Seventeen athletes who had a recent history of acute LBI and 17 matched healthy controls were tested. At the time of testing (mean = 56 days postinjury, range = 7-120 days postinjury), all athletes were symptom free and had returned to regular competition. Subjects performed isometric exertions in trunk flexion, extension, and left and right lateral bending against a trunk restraining cable. Upon reaching the target isometric force, the cable was released to impose sudden loading on the lumbar spine. Surface EMG signals from 12 major trunk muscles were recorded. The shut-off and switch-on latencies and number of muscles responding to sudden loading were compared between the 2 groups. In all 4 testing directions, the athletes with a recent history of acute LBI shut off significantly fewer muscles and did so with delayed latency. On average, the injured subjects shut off 4.0 out of 6.0 (SD = 1.3) muscles compared to 4.6 out of 6.0 (SD = 1.3) muscles in the control group. The average muscle shut-off latency was 71 (SD = 31) milliseconds for the injured and 50 (SD = 21) milliseconds for the control subjects. No differences were found in number or latency of muscles switching on. These objective measures of neuromuscular function indicated an altered muscle response pattern to sudden trunk loading in athletes following their clinical recovery from a recent acute LBI.
Article
A systematic biomechanical analysis involving an artificial perturbation applied to individual lumbar muscles in order to assess their potential stabilizing role. To identify which torso muscles stabilize the spine during different loading conditions and to identify possible mechanisms of function. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA.: Stabilization exercises are thought to train muscle patterns that ensure spine stability; however, little quantification and no consensus exists as to which muscles contribute to stability. Spine kinematics, external forces, and 14 channels of torso electromyography were recorded for seven stabilization exercises in order to capture the individual motor control strategies adopted by different people. Data were input into a detailed model of the lumbar spine to quantify spine joint forces and stability. The EMG signal for a particular muscle was replaced either unilaterally or bilaterally by a sinusoid, and the resultant change in the stability index was quantified. A direction-dependent-stabilizing role was noticed in the larger, multisegmental muscles, whereas a specific subtle efficiency to generate stability was observed for the smaller, intersegmental spinal muscles. No single muscle dominated in the enhancement of spine stability, and their individual roles were continuously changing across tasks. Clinically, if the goal is to train for stability, enhancing motor patterns that incorporate many muscles rather than targeting just a few is justifiable.
Article
Female athletes have a four- to sevenfold increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury compared with their male counterparts playing at similar levels in the same sports. The elevated risk of ACL injury in females coupled with the geometric increase in female sports participation in the last 30 years has led to a rapid rise in these injuries. This large increase in ACL injury incidence has fueled studies into both mechanisms of injury and interventions to prevent injury. A review of published multidisciplinary approaches demonstrates that several training protocols have utilized multiple components targeted toward injury prevention training and were able to reduce injury incidence in female athletes. Similar training techniques may also be used to gain improvements in measures of performance. The purpose of this review is to highlight training components that may reduce ACL injury risk and assess their potential for combined use in performance-oriented protocols.
Article
A quantitative biomechanical comparison of seven different lumbar spine "stabilization exercises." The purpose of this research was to quantify lumbar spine stability resulting from the muscle activation patterns measured when performing selected stabilization exercises. Many exercises are termed "stabilization exercises" for the low back; however, limited attempts have been made to quantify spine stability and the resultant tissue loading. Ranking resultant stability together with spinal load is very helpful for guiding clinical decision-making and therapeutic exercise design. Eight stabilization exercises were quantified in this study. Spine kinematics, external forces, and 14 channels of torso EMG were recorded for each exercise. These data were input into a modified version of a lumbar spine model described by Cholewicki and McGill (1996) to quantify stability and L4-L5 compression. A rank order of the various exercises was produced based on stability, muscle activation levels, and lumbar compression. Quantification of the calibrated muscle activation levels together with low back compression and resultant stability assists clinical decisions regarding the most appropriate exercise for specific patients and specific objectives.
Article
It has been shown that disc herniations are a cumulative injury created by repetitive flexion motion while under modest compressive loads. There is a lack of data linking the direction of nucleus tracking to the orientation of the bending motion axis. Our purpose was to determine if the direction that the nucleus tracks through the annulus during progressive herniation is predictable from the direction of bending motion (i.e. a specific side with posterio-lateral herniation). Matched cohorts (nu=16) of porcine cervical spine (C3/4 and C5/6) motion segments were potted in aluminum cups and bent at an angle of 30 degrees to the sagittal plane flexion axis while under a sustained compressive load of 1472 N. The direction of bending motion affected the tracking pattern of the nucleus through the annular fibres in a predictable pattern. Specifically, bending the motion segments at an angle of 30 degrees to the left of the sagittal plane flexion axis biased the movement of the nucleus toward the posterior right side of the disc in 15 of the 16 specimens. Based on this animal model, shown to have similar biomechanical behaviour to humans, the direction that the nucleus tracks through the annular fibres appears to be dependent upon the direction of bending motion. This may have implications on both herniation prevention and rehabilitation of posterio-lateral bulges and herniations.
Article
There is evidence that neuromuscular training not only decreases the potential biomechanical risk factors for ACL injury, but also decreases knee and, specifically, ACL injury incidence in female athletes. Five of the six interventions in this systematic review demonstrated significant effects on overall knee or ACL injury rates. It appears that plyometric power, biomechanics and technique, strength, balance, and core stability training can induce neuromuscular changes and potential injury prevention effects in female athletes. However, it is unknown which of these components is most effective or whether the effects are combinatorial. Future research should assess the relative efficacy of these interventions alone and in combination to achieve the optimal effect in the most efficient manner possible. Selective combination of neuromuscular training components may provide additive effects, further reducing the risk of ACL injuries in female athletes. Additional research directions include the assessment of relative injury risk using mass neuromuscular screening, the development of more specific injury prevention protocols targeted toward high-risk athletes, and the determination of when these interventions should be implemented. It may be that prepubertal or early pubertal female athletes may have the potential to achieve optimal biomechanical changes and the greatest chance of injury-free sports participation throughout their careers.
Article
The purpose of the current paper was to use the energy approach to develop a simplified equation for quantifying individual muscle contributions to mechanical stability about all three axes of a particular joint. Specific examples are provided for muscles acting about the lumbar spine's L4/L5 joint. The stability equation requires input of: (1) origin and insertion coordinates, relative to the joint of interest, (2) muscle force, and (3) muscle stiffness. The muscle force must be derived from a biomechanical analysis that first results in static equilibrium about all axes being studied. The equation can also accommodate muscles with nodes that change the line of action, with respect to a particular joint, as it passes from the origin to insertion. The results from this equation were compared to those from a Moment approach using more than two million simulated muscles with three-dimensional orientations. The differences between approaches were negligible in all cases. The primary advantage of the current method is that it is very easy to implement into any 2D or 3D biomechanical model of any joint, or system of joints. Furthermore, this approach will be useful in dissecting total joint stability into the individual contributions of each muscle for various systems, joints, postures and recruitment patterns.