Postural Stability in Female Rhythmic and Artistic Gymnastics Athletes: the Role of Visual and Somatosensory Signals
摘要
The study was devoted to the assessment of postural stabilityin female athletes involved in rhythmic (n =17), artistic (n = 20) gymnasticsand non-athletes (n = 19).The main objective was to identify the features of the center ofpressure (CoP) oscillations in female and non-athletes under variousconditions of activation of visual and somatosensory inputs. Themethod of computer stabilometry was used on the automated complex“Stabilan-01-5”. To assess postural stability, the parameters ofthe stabilographic test were analyzed: linear velocity of CoP movement(ALV, mm/s), angular velocity of CoP movement (AAV, deg/s) and ellipsearea (ELLS, sq. mm), the Romberg coefficient was calculated. Spectralanalysis of stabilographic signals was conducted. The participantsperformed tests in a normal stance on a hard and soft surface withtheir eyes closed and open. The results showed that CoP oscillationsin female and non-gymnasts in a calm stance were comparable, butdifferences were observed on a soft surface. Rhythmic and artisticgymnasts demonstrated better postural stability indicators, whichis explained by their ability to integrate proprioceptive and visualsignals. Spectral analysis showed smaller fluctuations in the high-frequencyrange in both rhythmic and artistic gymnasts, which indicates theformation of specific motor and neuromuscular strategies in them.It was also found that rhythmic gymnasts were more dependent onvisual control to maintain postural stability, which is probablydue to the need to accurately assess the distance and body positionwhen performing elements specific to this sport. The results obtainedcan serve as a basis for developing individual training programstaking into account sensory integration and movement control indifferent groups of athletes.