Effects of 8-Week Complex Balance Training in Young Alpine Skiers: A Pilot Study

Biomed Res Int. 2018 Nov 21:2018:6804534. doi: 10.1155/2018/6804534. eCollection 2018.

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an 8-week complex balance training program on dynamic balance in skiers according to the new balance training protocol.

Design: Intervention study, comprising 8 weeks of core stability, plyometric, balance, and stretching exercises.

Participants: Ten young skiers volunteered to take part in this study (average age, height, and body mass were 16,44 +/- 1,07 years, 172,76+/-8,84 cm, and 67,4 11,44 kg, respectively (mean +/- SD)).

Main outcome measures: Subjects' dynamic balance performance was assessed and retested after training completion with the use of dynamic balance measurement within the Optojump Next System.

Results: The results of 8-week complex balance training showed significant improvements for jump height (H) and flight time (FT) for the left leg and jumping area in both legs.

Conclusion: The complex balance training program improved parameters of dynamic stability in young skiers and led to decreased asymmetry between lower extremities.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Athletic Performance / physiology*
  • Education / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Leg / physiology
  • Male
  • Muscle Strength / physiology
  • Pilot Projects
  • Plyometric Exercise / methods
  • Postural Balance / physiology*