Guidelines for Sport Coaches on Core-Strengthening Techniques for Athletes: Improving Performance and Decreasing the Occurrence of Lower Back Pain

Abstract

This paper introduces the concept of dynamic isometrics in training athletes to improve core/postural-related movements while potentially decreasing the occurrence of injury manifested as lower back pain (LBP). Moreover, suggested resistance-training exercises are provided to guide the sport coach. Lower back pain is a common musculoskeletal injury that can be caused by imbalances between anterior and posterior muscle groups. Traditional exercises such as sit-ups and crunches are insufficient as preventatives because very few athletic movements are performed with weighted trunk flexion. Alternatively, sport coaches could implement dynamic isometric training, which closely reflects athletic activities, supports the principle of training specificity, improves balance and strength, and might decrease the occurrence of LBP (Hamlyn, Behm, & Young, 2007).