Gain in strength and muscular balance after balance training

Citation
Hc. Heitkamp et al., Gain in strength and muscular balance after balance training, INT J SP M, 22(4), 2001, pp. 285-290
Citations number
16
Language
INGLESE
art.tipo
Article
Categorie Soggetti
Medical Research General Topics
Journal title
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPORTS MEDICINE
ISSN journal
0172-4622 → ACNP
Volume
22
Issue
4
Year of publication
2001
Pages
285 - 290
Database
ISI
SICI code
0172-4622(200105)22:4<285:GISAMB>2.0.ZU;2-#
Abstract
The isolated effect of balance training on muscle strength of the flexors a nd extensors of the knee, without accompanying strength training, has not b een addressed in the past. Effects of a balance training program alone were compared to a strength training program. Balance and strength training wer e performed by 15 persons each for 6 weeks including 12 training units of 2 5 min. Balance training was performed on instability training devices such as rolling board, mini trampoline and large rubber ball. The 15 persons of the strength training group trained on machines for leg curls and on leg pr esses for 25 min per unit. Measurements for balance were performed with one -leg balance on a narrow edge and a tilting stabilometer for 30 s; maximum isometric strength was measured using an isokinetic device for each leg sep arately. The muscular balance between dominant and non-dominant leg was cal culated. Strength gain was similar for the flexors and extensors in both gr oups. One-leg balance improved after balance training (P < 0.01) with a 100 % increase over the strength training group (P < 0.05) and the stabilometer test for each person in the balance (P < 0.01), but not in the strength tr aining group. In the balance group the initial difference between right and left diminished. The results indicate balance training to be effective for gain in muscular strength, and secondly, in contrast to strength training, equalisation of muscular imbalances may be achieved after balance training .