Does 8 Weeks of Integrated Functional Core and Plyometric Training Improve Postural Control Performance in Young Rhythmic Gymnasts?

It has been suggested that core stability and plyometric training (CPT) can enhance athletes' postural control. Nevertheless, the effects of an integrated core and plyometric training program on rhythmic gymnastics (RG) performance are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an integrated functional CPT program on young rhythmics gymnasts' postural performance. A sample of 44 young female rhythmic gymnasts from a competitive team (age = 10.5 ± 1.8 years) participated in the study. The subjects were randomly divided into a control group and an experimental group. Pre- and posttest design was used. Postural control was assessed using single-leg stance tests and RG-specific balances over a force platform and evaluated by expert RG judges. The experimental group (n = 23) completed an 8-week functional CPT program based on RG technical requirements. Meanwhile, the control group (n = 21) received their usual training sessions. A mixed model of analysis of variance was applied to evaluate the effects of an intrasubject factor and an intersubject factor on each of the dependent variables. After 8 weeks, the experimental group obtained significant better results in some variables of the right support leg with eyes open and left support leg with eyes open single-leg support (p < .01), improvements were also found in some specific RG balances: Arabesque measured on the force platform (p < .01) and the side leg with help balance scored by the judges (p < .01). In conclusion, an integrated functional CPT program improved postural control in young rhythmic gymnasts. Coaches should consider using this CPT to improve RG performance.

Observational study with the objective of determining possible correlations between GRF and muscle activation at reception after a jump in an ACL injury

INTRODUCTION: The ACL injury is considered one of the most serious injuries and usually occurs in actions that include movements with changes of direction, jump and landing. It is a common injury between the young active population and the risk in women of suffering from non-contact injury is superior to that of men. Athletes who suffer from non-contact injuries of the ACL usually have common biomechanical profiles, with landings with large values in ground reaction force (GRF) and therefore, low cushioning on landing. OBJECTIVE: To determine possible correlations between GRF and muscular activation at lading after a jump. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The type of study carried out is an observational study in which, using surface electromyography (EMG), a force platform and an electrogoniometer, the aim is to assess muscle activation and its relationship with GRF (specifically the vertical component Fz). RESULTS: Correlations have been observed between the reaction force of the soil (Fz) in the moments where the reaction force of the soil is greater and the instant where the knee reaches maximum flexion after landing, with the activation of certain muscle groups and differences depending on the gender of the subject. DISCUSSION: The neuromuscular recruitment strategies in the phases of maximum GRF load and knee flexion are different depending on the sex of the individual, so it should be considered when scheduling prevention and recovery work. CONCLUSION: The evaluation of GRF and muscle activation patterns, allows to assess the dynamics of landing after a jump and to be able to detect different patterns according to sex, with the consequent importance that it can have in the injury mechanism

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