Core Stability Tests Research Articles

Effects of core stability on shoulder and spine kinematics during upper limb elevation: A sex-specific analysis

BackgroundUpper limb elevation begins with core stabilization, but the effects of core stability on shoulder and spine kinematics are unknown. Sex differences also exist in shoulder kinematics and core stability. ObjectiveTo clarify the effects of core stability on shoulder and spine kinematics during upper limb elevation by taking sex into account. DesignCross-sectional. MethodsThe Sahrmann Core Stability Test, lumbar spine motor control test battery, and Y Balance Test (lower and upper quarters) were performed in 50 healthy young adults. For each test, a principal component (PC) analysis was conducted according to sex; the overall core stability score was calculated. The top and bottom third of the PC scores were defined as high and low score groups, respectively (each group: nine males and eight females). Shoulder and spine kinematics during upper limb elevation were compared separately for males and females. ResultsSpinal extension was greater in the low score group by a maximum of 1.9° in males (P < .001; η2 = 0.068) and 1.6° in females (P < .001; η2 = 0.141). In the low score group of females, the scapular posterior tilt was a maximum of 5.6° smaller (P < .001; η2 = 0.221) and glenohumeral elevation was a maximum of 4.5° larger (P < .001; η2 = 0.113) than the high score group of females. ConclusionCore stability affected spine and female scapular and glenohumeral kinematics during upper limb elevation. Core stability may be one of the potential contributors to shoulder kinematics, particularly in females.

Relationship between Functional Movement Screen, Core Stability, and Swimming Performance

Background: The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a series of functional movement tests composed of seven tests designed to predict injury risk as well as sports performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between functional movement screen, core stability, and swimming performance. Methods: A total of 60 adolescents, boys aged 15 to 19 years, club-level swimmers participated in the present study. The Pearson and Spearman correlation methods were used to examine the relationships between variables (p≤0.05). Results: There was no significant relationship between any of FMS scores and swim performance (p>0.05). There was also no significant relationship not only between any of each individual FMS tests and core stability tests, but also between total core function and total FMS scores (p>0.05). Conclusions: Regardless of the fact that FMS is valuable in identifying individual weaknesses, compensations, asymmetries, and dysfunctional movement patterns, no significant relation was seen between FMS tests, swim performance and core stability. It seems that FMS is not a suitable assessment tool in assessing swimming performance. Therefore, this information is viable for those looking to do more research on the FMS as a predictor of athletic performance because it does not show results in favor of the FMS, according to this study.

Relationship Among 3 Different Core Stability Tests in Healthy Young Adults: Validity and Gender Differences.

Core stability is important for preventing injury and improving performance. Although various tests for evaluating core stability have been reported to date, information on their relationship and the effect of gender differences is limited. This study aimed to (1)identify correlations among the 3 core stability tests and to examine the validity of each test and (2)identify gender differences in the test relationship and determine whether gender influenced test selection. Cross-sectional study. Fifty-one healthy volunteers (27 men and 24 women) participated in the study. The participants underwent the following 3 tests: Sahrmann Core Stability Test (SCST), the lumbar spine motor control tests battery(MCBT), and Y Balance Test (YBT). Each parameter was analyzed according to all parameters and gender using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Overall, there was a strong positive correlation between SCST and MCBT and moderate positive correlations between SCST and YBT and between MCBT and YBT. Conversely, gender-specific analyses revealed no significant correlations between YBT and SCST and between YBT and MCBT in women, although significantly strong correlations were found among all tests in men. Although these 3 tests evaluated interrelated functions and may be valid as core stability tests, the results should be carefully interpreted when performing YBT in women.

The Effect of Eight-Week Functional Core Training on Core Stability in Young Rhythmic Gymnasts: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

It is suggested that core stability (CS) might improve rhythmic gymnasts’ performance. Nevertheless, the effect of core stability training (CST) in CS performance is not clear. Purpose: Evaluating the effect of an eight-week functional CST on young rhythmics gymnasts’ CS performance. Method: A sample of 45 young female rhythmic gymnasts from a competitive team (age = 10.5 ± 1.8 years, height = 144.1 ± 10.6 cm, weight 38.2 ± 8.9 kg, peak height velocity (PHV) = 12.2 ± 0.6 years) participated in the study. The participants were randomly allocated into the control group (CG) and experimental group (EG) and completed pre-tests and post-tests of specific CS tests using a pressure biofeedback unit (PBU). The CS was assessed by the bent knee fall out (BKFO), the active straight leg raise (ASLR) tests and the pelvic tilt test, all performed on the right and left sides. The EG (n = 23) performed an eight-week functional CST program based on rhythmic gymnastics (RG) technical requirements added to the traditional RG training sessions. Meanwhile, the CG (n = 22) received the traditional RG training sessions. Results: Mixed model analysis showed non-significant interaction effects; however, the ANOVA omnibus test showed a time effect (p < 0.05) in right BKFO (F1,42 = 4.60; p = 0.038) and both pelvic tilt tests (right F1,42 = 22.01, p < 0.001; left F1,42 = 19.13, p < 0.001). There were non-significant interaction effects. The fixed effects estimated parameters for right BKFO showed that both groups had less pressure variation after intervention compared with pre-intervention (β = −1.85 mmHg, 95%CI = [−3.54 to −0.16], t42 = −2.14, p = 0.038). Furthermore, the left pelvic tilt (β = 37.0 s, 95%CI = [20.4 to 53.6], t42 = 4.37, p < 0.001) improved 8.9 s more than the right pelvic tilt (β = 28.1 s, 95%CI = [16.3 to 39.8], t42 = 4.69, p < 0.001) considering both groups together. Conclusions: Adding a functional CST to regular training showed a trend in improving the performance of CS-related variables, which could help improve RG-specific performance. Coaches working with rhythmic gymnasts should consider adding a functional CST to regular training to improve CS performance leading to increased specific RG performance.

Concurrent Validity and Test-Retest Reliability of The Core Stability Test Using Ultrasound Imaging and Electromyography Measurements

<h3>Research Objectives</h3> To establish the concurrent validity and test-retest reliability of the formal test. <h3>Design</h3> Two-group test-retest reliability design. <h3>Setting</h3> 1) A certified physical therapist uses a formal test as a pressure biofeedback unit (PBU) to classify the participants into core stability groups and instability groups. 2) Perform a formal test on each group and measure the thickness of abdominal muscles with real-time ultrasound (US). 3) Investigate the correlation between the thickness of abdominal muscles and PBU pressure. 4) Re-measure after 24 hours to verify test-retest reliability. <h3>Participants</h3> 11 young adults with core instability (8 men and 3 women) were able to successfully perform the formal test three consecutive times and completed the abdominal draw-in maneuver core stabilization training augmented by PBU-US-EMG feedback, for 20 minutes a day, 7 days a week, over two weeks.11 young adults with core stability (8 men and 3 women) were unable to successfully perform the formal test three consecutive times. <h3>Interventions</h3> No intervention. <h3>Main Outcome Measures</h3> 1) Real-time US and surface EMG to measure the thickness of deep abdominal and superficial trunk muscle activity. 2) PBU pressure under the abdomen. <h3>Results</h3> The Pearson's correlation analysis showed an excellent correlation between transverse abdominal (TrA) thickness and PBU pressure as well as internal oblique (IO) thickness and PBU pressure, ranging from r=0.856 – 0.980, P < 0.05. The test-retest reliability was good, ICC1,2 = 0.876 for the core stability pressure measure and ICC1,2 = 0.939 to 0.989 for the abdominal muscle thickness measure. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Our findings demonstrate that the formal test, using a PBU and real-time US imaging without confirming the minimal contraction of superficial trunk muscles, as evidenced by EMG, leads to incorrect results. For example, such results in adults or individuals with core instability pathology ultimately influence rehabilitation programs designed to improve core stability. Therefore, the combination of a PBU, real-time US, and surface EMG measurements may help obtain more reliable results from the formal tests and better understand the neuromuscular control mechanisms of core stability. <h3>Author(s) Disclosures</h3> There are no conflicts.

The effect of rectus reapproximation on postoperative muscle strength and core endurance in cesarean section: A prospective case-control study.

The necessity of the reapproximation technique of the rectus abdominis muscle in the cesarean section (CS) is a controversial issue. We aimed to investigate the effect of the approximation of the rectus abdominis muscle in CS on postoperative pain intensity, muscle strength, and core endurance. Thirty-eight women whose rectus muscle was reapproximated in CS and 36 women whose muscles were not reapproximated were included in the study. All women were called in for evaluation in the postoperative period twice, in the 8th-10th and 24-26th weeks. While muscle strength was assessed by manual muscle test (MMT), core endurance was assessed by core stability tests [trunk flexion test (TFT), trunk extensor endurance test (TEET), lateral right/left bridge test (LRBT/LLBT)]. The distance between inter-rectus diastasis (IRD) and rectus abdominis muscle thickness were evaluated by ultrasonography. In the first evaluation; in the rectus muscle reapproximation (RMR) group, lower and upper IRD values were less than the control group, while muscle strength, TFT, TEET, LRBT, and LLBT times were higher (p < 0.001, <0.001, 0.014, <0.001, <0.001, 0.002, and <0.001, respectively). In the second evaluation; in the RMR group, lower and upper IRD values were lower than the control group, while upper rectus abdominis muscle thickness, TFT, TEET, and LRBT times were higher (p < 0.001, <0.001, 0.046, <0.001, 0.032, and 0.010, respectively). RMR in CS increases muscle strength and core endurance in the early postoperative period. RMR can facilitate the daily work of mother by increasing their physical fitness, especially in the early postoperative period.

Effects of stabilization exercises on disability, pain, and core stability in patients with non-specific low back pain: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Many studies have emphasized the importance of stabilization exercises (SE) for the management of non-specific low back pain (NSLBP), yet there is no study assessing all aspects of core stability in comparing SE and other exercises. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of SE on pain and core stability by using core stability tests that focus on all aspects of core stability in patients with NSLBP. METHODS: Thirty-seven individuals with chronic NSLBP were randomly divided into two groups as SE and conventional exercises (CE). Both groups underwent the progressive exercise program three days per week for six weeks. The assessments were conducted before and after the exercise programs. The outcome measures included pain, disability, trunk strength, trunk flexor, extensor and lateral flexor endurance, function, flexibility, and motor control during eyes open/closed. RESULTS: All assessment parameters except motor control during eyes open improved after SE (p &lt; 0.05). Also, all assessment parameters except motor control during eyes open/closed and lateral trunk endurance improved after CE (p &lt; 0.05). When comparing groups for gain scores, there were more significant improvements in pain during activity, endurance and function after SE (p &lt; 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: SE is more effective than CE in reducing pain during activity and improving core stability regarding functionality and endurance.

Does polycystic ovary syndrome with phenotype D affect the cardiovascular endurance, core endurance, body awareness, and the quality of life? A prospective, controlled study

Objective:This study evaluates cardiovascular endurance, core endurance, body awareness, and the quality of life in normal-weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome.Materials and Methods:This study included a total of 101 normal-weight women (51 with and 50 without polycystic ovary syndrome). Cardiovascular endurance was evaluated with the 20-meter Shuttle Run test, and maximum oxygen consumption was calculated. Core endurance was evaluated with core stability tests, body awareness with the body awareness questionnaire, and the quality of life with short form-36. Blood lipids, glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), hormonal profile, and high-density and low-density lipoprotein cholesterols were measured.Results:Maximum oxygen consumption, core endurance, body awareness questionnaire, and short form-36 results were lower in women with polycystic ovary syndrome than healthy women (p<0.05). There was a significant correlation between core endurance tests, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, maximum oxygen consumption, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance scores (p<0.05).Conclusion:When normal-weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome and control groups with similar androgen levels and body mass index profiles were compared, women with polycystic ovary syndrome had lower aerobic capacity and muscle endurance. This suggests that the adverse metabolic profile of polycystic ovary syndrome can limit physical function.

FMS assessment and core stability in a group of amateur climbers

Background: The objective of the study was to assess the functional status of people who regularly climb for recreational purposes, using the FMS (Functional Movement Screen) and core stability tests (McGill's torso muscular endurance tests). This paper also attempts to determine the relation between the assessment of functional efficiency and the results obtained in core stability tests. Material and methods: The study group were consisted of 30 amateur climbers (aged 26 ±3), who were compared to a control group of 30 people who don’t climb but recreationally practice volleyball (aged 22 ±3). All participants performed each of the seven FMS trials and the three McGill's tests. Results: Amateur climbers, in comparison to non-climbers, were achieved higher scores in each of the core stability trials (p&lt;0,05). Climbers also scored significantly higher results in all FMS trials as well as in the final average (19,0 3 ±1,54 vs. 16,60 ±3,60; p&lt;0,01). In addition, there were found positive correlations between FMS and core stability trials in the group of climbers (Deep Squad vs. Side bridge test; In-Line Lunge vs. Side bridge test; Rotational Stability vs. all trials of the core stability test). Conclusions: People recreational practicing climbing are characterized by a high level of functional efficiency and above-average levels of deep trunk muscles endurance, responsible for the proper functioning of the central stabilization. Relationship between the overall results of the FMS and the core stability tests in the climbers' group shows that proper stability training, which is a part of the climbers training, may result in higher athletes’ performance.

The relationship between core stability and athletic performance in female university athletes.

Questions remain as to whether core stability represents single or multiple components, how to assess core stability, and if a relationship exists with athletic performance in different sporting codes. To investigate the relationship between core stability and athletic performance in female university athletes. Eighty-three female athletes (hockey, netball, running, soccer and tennis) participated in this quantitative, cross-sectional study. The isometric back extension (IBE), lateral flexion (LF) and abdominal flexion (AF) tests were used to measure core strength and endurance. The core stability grading system using a pressure biofeedback unit was applied to measure core neuromuscular control (NMC). Athletic performance was assessed using the 40 m sprint, T-test, vertical jump (VJ) and the medicine ball chest throw (MBCT). Correlations between the core stability tests and the athletic performance tests were determined overall and separately by sport. The effect of core stability on athletic performance was analysed using ANCOVA. Overall for all sports, most correlations were weak (r=0.10-0.39), although there was a very strong correlation between LF (strength) and VJ (r=0.90). When the sports were considered separately, there were moderate correlations (r=0.40-0.69) between core strength, endurance and motor control with certain athletic performance tests in all five sport codes. In runners, strong correlations (r=0.70-0.89) were observed between AF (endurance) and VJ, and in tennis players between IBE (strength) and the sprint. Correlations were found between core stability and athletic performance, although most correlations were negligible or weak. Athletic performance in different sport codes is associated with different components of core stability.

Concurrent Validity and Test-retest Reliability of the Core Stability Test Using Ultrasound Imaging and Electromyography Measurements

Background: While the formal test has been used to provide a quantitative measurement of core stability, studies have reported inconsistent results regarding its test-retest and intraobserver reliabilities. Furthermore, the validity of the formal test has never been established. Objects: This study aimed to establish the concurrent validity and test-retest reliability of the formal test. Methods: Twenty-two young adults with and without core instability (23.1 ± 2.0 years) were recruited. Concurrent validity was determined by comparing the muscle thickness changes of the external oblique, internal oblique, and transverse abdominal muscle to changes in core stability pressure during the formal test using ultrasound (US) imaging and pressure biofeedback, respectively. For the test-retest reliability, muscle thickness and pressure changes were repeatedly measured approximately 24 hours apart. Electromyography (EMG) was used to monitor trunk muscle activity during the formal test. Results: The Pearson’s correlation analysis showed an excellent correlation between transverse abdominal thickness and pressure biofeedback unit (PBU) pressure as well as internal oblique thickness and PBU pressure, ranging from r = 0.856–0.980, p < 0.05. The test-retest reliability was good, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC1,2) = 0.876 for the core stability pressure measure and ICC1,2 = 0.939 to 0.989 for the abdominal muscle thickness measure. Conclusion: Our results provide clinical evidence that the formal test is valid and reliable, when concurrently incorporated into EMG and US measurements.

The Effect of Circuit Core Stability Training Towards The Strength of Abdominal Muscles and Balance

Several aspects affect an athlete’s improvement in achievements, such as physical, technical, strategical, and psychological aspects. One of the physical aspects observed in this research is circuit core stability training. This research aims to find out the use of interval 1:1 and interval 1:2 of the circuit core stability techniques towards the improvement of abdominal muscles’ strength and balance. This research uses the randomized pre and post-test design. The sample was 20 students of the Sports Training and Education study program, Surabaya State University. The abdominal muscles strength is tested by doing 30 minutes sit-up, while the balance is tested through Balance Beam Test. The result of the homogeneity test shows that the samples are normal and homogeneous. Paired sample T-test is used to find out the mean among the samples. The circuit core stability training is done in 18 meetings, pre-test and post-test are done before and after the treatment. It is found that the circuit core stability test can improve the abdominal muscles' strength and balance. The result shows the improvements before and after the treatment. It is found that there is improvement in average abdominal strength from 22,4 to 24,2, and balance from 39.5 to 42.8 seconds in the core stability 1:1 group. Meanwhile, in the core stability 1:2 group, it was found that there is an improvement of abdominal muscles strength from23.4 times, to 25.2 times. The balance test shows that there is improvement in the average from 79 to become 85,40 seconds. From the result, it can be concluded that circuit core stability 1:1 and 1:2 can significantly improve the strength of the abdominal muscles and balance.

Associations between core stability and low back pain in high school baseball players: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundReduced core stability is a potential risk factor for low back pain in athletes. However, the association between core stability and low back pain in high school baseball players has not been thoroughly studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between core stability and low back pain and its clinical characteristics in high school baseball players. MethodsParticipants comprised 812 high school baseball players who had undergone annual medical evaluations, comprising a self-completed questionnaire and a physical examination. We investigated the relationships between low back pain during the season and on the day of medical evaluations and core stability using a cross-sectional study design. Core stability was assessed using the Sahrmann core stability test. ResultsReduced core stability was confirmed in 358 (44.1%) of all players, 98 (49.5%) pitchers, and 260 (42.3%) fielders. In total, 352 players (43.3%) reported incidents of seasonal low back pain during the previous year. Thirty-five pitchers (17.7%) and 153 fielders (24.9%) reported low back pain on the day of the medical evaluations. No significant associations were seen between low back pain throughout the season and reduced core stability. After adjusting for confounding factors (total amount of practice per week, hamstring tightness and quadriceps tightness) using logistic regression modeling, a significant association between presence of low back pain during lumbar extension movement and reduced core stability was found (odds ratio, 2.57; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–6.62; P = 0.033) in pitchers. ConclusionsHigh school baseball pitchers with reduced core stability showed a higher probability of reporting low back pain during lumbar extension movement. Evaluation of core stability should be considered in high school baseball players, especially in pitchers.

Contribution core stability and strength to the performance athlete Slalom Number Water Ski in terms of gender Characteristics

The purpose of this study is to find out the contribution of core stability and strength to the performance athletes slalom number Water Ski in Jakarta in terms of gender characteristics. This research is a survey study using correlational design, while this study was conducted in lake Sunter Jakarta with a sample number of 15 male athletes slalom number water ski. This research instrument uses core stability and strength tests and measurements. For core stability use the ability to fight prisoners' lumbar-pelvic-hip muscles and to strength using tests sit_up and Push ups for 60 seconds. The data analysis in this study uses descriptive analysis and inferential analysis. Descriptive analysis aims to obtain average values,standard deviations, minimum values, and maximum values, while for inferential analysis using simple regression and multiple regression at a significant level α=0.05 overall data analysis using SPSS version 23. The results of this study show that:(1) there is a contribution of core stability to the performance of male athletes; (2) there is a core stability contribution to the performance of male athletes, and (3) there is a simultaneous contribution of core stability strength to the performance of male athletes slalom number Water Ski in the Jakarta. However, this study only involved a few physical components, for further research to consider the social environment, psychology athletes, and those associated with improving the performance of athletes athlete reviewed from gender.

Are Core Stability Tests Related to Single Leg Squat Performance in Active Females?

Core stability (CS) deficits can have a significant impact on lower limb function. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between two dynamic core exercise assessments and dynamic knee valgus during single-leg squats. In total, 20 physically active female students participated in this study. The OCTOcore smartphone application assesses CS during two dynamic exercise tests, the partial range single-leg deadlift (SLD) test and the bird-dog (BD) test. A two-dimensional assessment of a single-leg squat test was used to quantify participants’ hip frontal angle (HFASLS) and knee frontal plane projection angle (FPPASLS). Ankle dorsiflexion was evaluated through the weight-bearing dorsiflexion test. The correlational analyses indicated that the HFASLS was significantly related to the partial range single-leg deadlift test (r = 0.314, p < 0.05) and ankle dorsiflexion (r = 0.322, p < 0.05). The results showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the CS test between cases categorised as dynamic knee valgus (>10°) and normal (≤10°). The CS deficit may influence the neuromuscular control of the lumbopelvic-hip complex during single-leg movements. The link between CS and kinematic factors related to knee injuries was only observed when CS was measured in the SLD test but not in the BD test.

A Group-Based 8-Week Functional Interval-Type Outdoor Training Program Improves Physical Performance in Recreationally Active Adults.

Even though physical activity is an important aspect of health, lack of time or motivation impede people from working out regularly. One type of training program that is both efficient and motivating is functional interval-type outdoor training. To evaluate this, our study had 81 participants complete a battery of physical performance tests (incremental treadmill test, core stability test and functional fitness test) before and after an 8-week outdoor interval-type training intervention. Training procedures included multimodal and high-intensity exercises performed in consistent, small groups. Results showed that the interval training program produced significant increases in the intervention group (n = 43) in functional and strength exercises (p < 0.001; squat (+27%), burpee (+24%), bridge (+39%), push-up (+34%), sit-up (+25%), high knees (+25%), row (+19%), effect sizes 0.4–0.11) for almost all parameters in comparison to a non-intervention control population (n = 38). Interestingly, trunk stability increased significantly (p < 0.001; flexion (+86%), extension (+43%), lateral left (+39%), lateral right (+32%), effect sizes 0.3–0.15) even though it was not explicitly trained; this was rather a secondary outcome of the functional exercises. Drop-out rates (Intervention group: 27%) suggest that this form of training seems to improve adherence to exercise and may help participants to stay committed to regular, intense activity. By simultaneously triggering adaptations in functional fitness, endurance and whole-body movements, this program can be used by people at different training levels.

Efficacy of dynamic Swiss ball training in improving the core stability of collegiate athletes

Introduction: The training of core muscles is key in sports training to improve performance and reduce the risk of injuries. However the most effective method to improve core musculature is still controversial. Therefore the objective of this study was aimed at investigating the effectiveness of dynamic Swiss ball training in reinforcing the core stability of collegiate athletes. Materials and methods: This two-group, two-factor research involved 67, 18- to 28-year-old collegiate athletes (18 females, 49 males) who were divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group was provided dynamic Swiss ball training, whereas the control group was instructed to perform floor exercises. The groups underwent training for six weeks (three days per week). Four core stability tests (the Biering-Sorenson trunk extension, Side Bridge, prone bridge, and double leg lowering tests) were administrated pre- and post-training. Results: The mean scores of the participants in the core stability tests significantly improved after six weeks of training (p&lt;0.05), but the between-group comparisons revealed that the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group in terms of enhancement in core stability (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The relatively high improvement in core stability parameters after Swiss ball training suggested that these exercises are favorable alternatives to traditional floor exercises in strengthening the core muscles. The findings are expected to help athletes, coaches, trainers, and other strength and conditioning specialists involved in athletic training decide on appropriate training methods.

Core stability in adolescent swimmers with swimmer’s shoulder syndrome

IntroductionSwimmer’s shoulder syndrome (SSS) is the most common overuse injury affecting swimmers and surfers. Core stability is crucial to prevent SSS. The study investigated the effect of isokinetic core strength of trunk flexors and extensors and core endurance on shoulder stability in adolescent swimmers with SSS.MethodsThe study involved 30 swimmers, assigned to 2 equal groups. The experimental group (A) suffered from SSS; the control group (B) included healthy swimmers with no history of shoulder pain or instability. The mean values of age, body mass, and height were 12.86 ± 1.59 years, 41.73 ± 3.99 kg, and 142.0 ± 3.96 cm, respectively, in group A and 13.2 ± 1.56 years, 42.66 ± 3.9 kg, and 142.26 ± 4.39 cm, respectively, in group B. Isokinetic peak torque (PT) for trunk flexors and extensors was measured with a Biodex isokinetic dynamometer. Four functional tests assessed core endurance: side bridge endurance test, static back endurance test, ball bridge test, and unilateral bridge test.ResultsThere was a statistically significant between-group difference in mean PT of trunk extension at both angular velocities: 60°/s, 180°/s. No significant differences were detected in mean PT of trunk flexion. All functional core stability tests revealed a greater endurance time in group B.ConclusionsWeak core inhibits shoulder muscles, which is a major risk factor for shoulder instability and SSS. It is crucial to incorporate core stability training into the rehabilitation plan to provide proximal stability for obtaining safe and proper distal mobility across the shoulder joint.

Validation and Application of Two New Core Stability Tests in Professional Football

The purpose of the first study was to validate two newly proposed core stability tests; Prone Plank test (PPT) and Closed Kinetic Chain test (CCT), for evaluating the strength of the body core. Subsequently, these tests were employed in a longitudinal prospective study implementing a core stability training program with a professional Spanish football team. For the validation study, 22 physically active men (Tegner Scale 6–7) performed three trials of the PPT and CCT tests in two different testing sessions separated by one week. In the longitudinal study, 13 male professional football players were equally evaluated (PPT and CCT) before and after the competitive session in which they completed a core training program. Intra-/intersession, and intertester, reliability was analyzed. PPT and CCT demonstrated excellent to good test–retest reliability and acceptable error measurement (ICCs for intratester and intrasession reliability ranged from 0.77 to 0.94 for the PPT, and 0.8–0.9 for the CCT) in all but one of the testing conditions (female tester for CCT test; ICC = 0.38). Significant improvements on core strength were found from pre to post evaluation in both the PPT (p &lt; 0.01) and CCT (p &lt; 0.01) after the implementation of a core training program in professional football players.

Cluster-sets resistance training induce similar functional and strength improvements than the traditional method in postmenopausal and elderly women.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 12weeks of traditional resistance training (TRT) or resistance training using Cluster-set (CS) on functional performance and physical fitness of postmenopausal and elderly women. Participants (61.1±4.9years, body mass 64.5±1.8kg, height 155.7±4.7cm) were randomized to TRT (n=35) or CS (n=31). Anthropometric measures, muscle strength and power, gait speed, core stability, flexibility, and functional performance tests were performed before and after 12weeks of training. The difference between protocols was the structure of rest intervals. The TRT group performed 120s of rest between sets of 8 repetitions, while the CS performed 30s of rest after every 2 repetitions. Two-way ANOVA with repeated measures was applied for each variable and, when needed, the Bonferroni post hoc was used. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. No group by time interaction was found for any variable. Regarding between-moment comparisons, there were significant improvements for 1 repetition maximum (RM) bench press (F=104.6; ηp2=0.62; p<0.001), 1RM leg press (F=74.6; ηp2=0.53; p<0.001), medicine ball throw (F=64.0; ηp2=0.26; p<0.001), standing long jump (F=27.6; ηp2=0.30; p<0.001), countermovement jump (F=17.4; ηp2=0.21; p<0.001), squat jump (F=23.2; ηp2=0.26; p<0.001), plank time (F=31.6; ηp2=0.33; p<0.001), 6m walking test (F=18.0; ηp2=0.22; p<0.001), sit-to-stand test (F=20.4; ηp2=0.24; p<0.001), sit and reach test (F=56.8; ηp2=0.47; p<0.001) and 2kg elbow curls (F=15.9; ηp2=0.19; p<0.001). Considering that both CS and TRT methods were equally effective to improve the physical fitness and functionality of elderly women, the decision of which protocol to use should be based on individual preferences and practical aspects.