RESUMEN
The aim of this study was to determine the extent of asymmetry of spinal segment mobility in canoeists. Moreover, the relationship between this parameter and racing speed was analyzed. The study included 18 canoeists with a mean age of 16.4 years. Mobility of cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, in sagittal, coronal and transverse planes, was measured with the aid of a tensometric electrogoniometer. The racing speed was based on results achieved during the qualifying competition for the Polish national team. Spinal mobility was measured within two days after the competition. Significant associations were observed between average racing speed and the asymmetry coefficients of the cervical (r=-0.52; p=0.03) and lumbar spinal flexure in the coronal plane (r=0.57; p=0.01). The extent of the asymmetry of the cervical spine flexure in the coronal plane should possibly be reduced, because such asymmetry exerts a negative effect on racing speed. In contrast, canoeist's training should be oriented towards increasing the asymmetry of the lumbar spine flexure in the coronal plane. However, one should keep in mind that such an approach, although favorable in terms of race performance, could negatively affect the canoeist's health.
RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: Strength shaping in canoeists can cause limitation of spine movement and pain symptoms. Because of the problem's importance the following study has been undertaken: in order to: 1) determine the relationship between the range of lumbar spine mobility and training experience in kayaking; 2) estimate of the relationship between the occurrence of weak links and symptoms of pain and range of motion in the lumbar spine. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 25 Walcz SMS players were examined, including 8 female kayakers, 8 canoeists and 9 canadians. Age (M +/- SD) 15.60 +/- 1.04 years; training period 5.64 +/- 1.78 years. Low threshold Performance Matrix. tests were used. to assess the presence of a weak connection The participants determined the sensation of pain in the lumbar spine (LBP) on a numeric scale. Mobility in the lumbar spine was rated by electrogoniametrics method. The results were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance ANOVA, Tukey's t tests and linear regression analysis. RESULTS: In all examined players weak connection in the lumbar spine were found in the direction of flexion, rotation and lateral flexion, and there were no weak links in the direction of extension. Only 10 players did not suffer from LBP. The other declared the existence of these symptoms. It has been found that the length of training period in kayaking is associated with reduced mobility in the lumbar spine and the occurrence of weak links. As a result pain symptoms have often occurred. Gender and specialization have no influence on the frequency and Range of LBP symptoms in kayaking. CONCLUSIONS: 1) Sports training in kayaking causes reduced mobility of the lumbar spine and may cause weak links in the chain of biokinenatics connections and symptoms of LBP. 2) Gender and sports specialization does not differentiate canoeists because of LBP symptoms. The reasons for their occurrence can be ascribed to the use of weight training.