The effect of core training on distal limb performance during ballistic strike manoeuvres.
Ballistic limb motion is enabled by proximal "core" stiffness. However, controversy exists regarding the best method of training this characteristic. This study sought to determine the most effective core training method to enhance distal limb athleticism. A total of 12 participants (24 ± 3 years, 1.8 ± 0.05 m, 76.8 ± 9.7 kg) consisting of Muay Thai athletes performed a core training protocol (Isometric vs. Dynamic, with Control) for 6 weeks, using a repeated measures design to assess performance (peak strike velocity, peak impact force, muscular activation) in various strikes. Isometric training increased impact force in Jab (554.4 ± 70.1 N), Cross (1895.2 ± 203.1 N), Combo (616.8 ± 54.9 N), and Knee (1240.0 ± 89.1 N) trials (P < 0.05). Dynamic training increased strike velocity in Jab (1.3 ± 0.2 m · s-1), Cross (5.5 ± 0.9 m · s-1), Combo (0.7 ± 0.1, 2.8 ± 0.3 m · s-1), and Knee (3.2 ± 0.3 m · s-1) trials (P < 0.05). Isometric training increased Combo impact force 935.1 ± 100.3 N greater than Dynamic and 931.6 ± 108.5 N more than Control (P < 0.05). Dynamic training increased Jab strike velocity 1.3 ± 0.1 m · s-1greater than Isometric and 0.8 ± 0.1 m · s-1more than Control (P < 0.05). It appears that both static and dynamic approaches to core training are needed to enhance both velocity and force in distal limbs.
a Spine Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Kinesiology , University of Waterloo , Waterloo , ON , Canada.
Benjamin
B
Lee
a Spine Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Faculty of Kinesiology , University of Waterloo , Waterloo , ON , Canada.
Stuart
S
McGill
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D004576:Electromyography; D006801:Humans; D035002:Lower Extremity / Q000502:physiology*; D008297:Male; D016139:Martial Arts / Q000502:physiology*; D009068:Movement; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000502:physiology; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology*; D064797:Physical Conditioning, Human / Q000379:methods*; D034941:Upper Extremity / Q000502:physiology*; D055815:Young Adult
Muay Thai; athleticism; core stability; martial arts; performance; proximal stiffness; spine