Examining the Influence of Different Physical Activity Training on the Postural Stability of University Students

F Orofino,C Crescimanno,R Coppola,M Lipoma,F Sgro

doi:10.13189/saj.2015.030303

Abstract

Static balance ability has a critical role in the execution of complex motor patterns as well as normal daily activities, and its efficiency could be improved by means of a regular and specific training program. In this study we investigated the relation between postural stability and different types of physical activities (PA) training among university students. Thirty-six students were enrolled and grouped into two PA categories: the Exergames category included subjects who use Nintendo Wii Balance Board gaming at least twice a week, and the Sport category included subjects who practiced sport activities at least twice a week. Subjects who did not practice structured sports or physical activities were enrolled as Control. Postural control was assessed by means of a normal standing balance test with open eyes (OE) and closed eyes (CE), respectively; a force plate was used to acquire data of the center of pressure (CoP) sway. From the CoP sway we were able to select two variables: the total displacement of sway (DOT) and the mean velocity. The mean velocity was estimated for antero-posterior (MVAP) and medio-lateral (MVML) directions, respectively. ANOVA revealed significant differences among groups for the three variables. We found that the mean of DOT and MVAP was significantly decreased in the Exergame's category compared with the others groups. Furthermore, the differences were higher for the CE than the OE test. The training programs based on the use of exergames seems to improve the postural control level of the aforementioned ability more than conventional sport training.

Highlights

Balance is closely linked to the normal activities that everyone carries out every day: standing, sit-to-stand, and sport performance
The differences related to DOT among the groups are shown in figure 1, while the differences related to mean velocity in antero-posterior (MVAP) and medio-lateral (MVML) directions are shown in the figures 2 and 3, respectively
Considering the closed eyes test, significant differences among the groups were found for DOT (F( 2,33) = 9.28, p=.001), for mean velocity was estimated for antero-posterior (MVAP) (F(2,33) = 9.19, p=.001), and for MVML (F(2,33) = 7.45, p=.002)

Summary

Introduction

Balance is closely linked to the normal activities that everyone carries out every day: standing, sit-to-stand, and sport performance. Upper and lower limbs are involved in maintaining an upright position and to correct the posture during dynamic tasks (i.e., gait cycle), but the lower ones have a critical role in maintaining standing static balance because they support body's weight and allow bipodal posture. In their actions, the strategies used are the ankle strategy, which involves the muscles for flex and extension of this joint (i.e., soleus, gastrocnemius, tibialis anterior), and the hip strategy, which acts mainly on the sway of the center of mass (CoM)

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