Alterations of Muscular Strength and Left and Right Limb Balance in Weightlifters after an 8-week Balance Training Program

Abstract

[Purpose] Balance is generally defined as the ability to maintain the body's center of gravity within its base of support and may be categorized by either static or dynamic balance. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of 8 weeks of balance training on strength, and the functional balance ability of elite weightlifters. [Subjects] Thirty-two elite weightlifters were recruited for the present study. They were divided into exercise groups (8 high school students, 8 middle school students) and control groups (8 high school students, 8 middle school students). [Methods] Body compositions were measured by the electrical impedance method, and a Helmas system was used to measure basic physical capacities. The muscular function test was conducted using a Cybex 770. [Results] There were no significant changes in body composition after the training. In contrast, significant changes were found in the number of push-ups, one-leg standing time with eyes closed, and upper body back extension. Interestingly, only the left arm external rotation value after the exercise training program showed a statistically significant difference from the baseline value. [Conclusion] The peak torque values of shoulder internal rotation and knee extension were significantly changed compared to the baseline values, which mean subjects showed balance of their muscular power. Therefore, the results of the present study suggest that an 8-week balance-training program would positively affect elite weightlifters' balance ability and flexibility. We think that well-balanced muscular functionality may enhance athletes' sport performance.

Balance Training Programs in Athletes – A Systematic Review

“…Among the various exercise types, balance training and neuromuscular training (Eisen et al, 2010; Kang et al, 2013; Verhagen et al, 2005; Matin et al, 2014) were most commonly incorporated, followed by plyometric exercises and core stability training (Asadi et al, 2015; Karadenizli, 2016a, 2016b; Lust et al, 2009; Sato and Mokha, 2009). …”

Characteristics of Standing Postural Control in Women under Additional Load

“…The results of a previous study showed that an eight-week training program focused on balance helps to adjust and maintain unbalanced strength. This can increase balancing ability [28].…”

Effects of 8 Weeks’ Specific Physical Training on the Rotator Cuff Muscle Strength and Technique of Javelin Throwers

“…To achieve this, training programs aiming to increase the internal rotator muscle strength of the rotator cuff were used in the past 21 ) . However, in recent years, a sport-specific SPT program that combines core training, balance training, and FMS training in addition to the traditional weight training has been used 6 , 7 , 8 , 10 ) . The 8 weeks SPT performed in this study increased the external rotator muscle strength of the rotator cuff at 200 degree/sec and 400 degree/sec isokinetic angular velocities (p < 0.05).…”

“…Furthermore, repeated eccentric stress on the rotator cuff due to excessive external rotation can cause microtrauma of the tendon, resulting in injuries 5 ) . Several studies have investigated the use of core training, balance training, and function movement screen (FMS) training to strengthen the rotator cuff in order to prevent these injuries 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 ) .…”