The deer play in Wuqinxi and four-point hand-knee kneeling positions for training core muscle function and spinal mobility.

Abstract

The four-point kneeling exercise is a core stabilization exercise that provides the spine with dynamic stability and neuromuscular control. In the traditional Chinese exercise Wuqinxi, deer play is performed in a hand−foot kneeling (HFK) position, which is remarkably similar to the four-point hand−knee kneeling (HKK) position. However, the differences in spinal function promotion between these two positions are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate muscle activation patterns and spinal kinematics during specific core stabilization training to provide evidence for selecting specific exercises. A total of 19 healthy adults were recruited to perform HFK and HKK. The rotation angle of the C7–T4 vertebra and the surface EMG signals of abdominal and lumbar muscles on both sides were collected. The paired t-test showed that the vertebral rotation angles were significantly higher during HKK than HFK, and the intra-group differences mainly occurred at the level of the thoracic vertebra. The muscle activation of both sides of the rectus abdominis and external oblique in HFK was significantly higher than in HKK when the upper limb was lifted (p < 0.05). The activation of the ipsilateral lumbar multifidus and erector spinae muscles was significantly higher during the HKK position than during HFK when the lower limb was lifted (p < 0.05). HFK provided more training for strengthening abdominal muscles, while HKK could be recommended for strengthening lumbar muscles and increasing spine mobility. These findings can be used to help physiotherapists, fitness coaches, and others to select specific core exercises and develop individualized training programs.