Aspects of body balance characteristics of novice fencers

Abstract

The subject of balance in fencing does not benefit from vast research, due to complexity of the movements that are involved. The aims of our paper were to evaluate the static balance in 11-13 years old fencers and to find out if physical fitness or anthropometric variables can be correlated with postural balance. Our study comprised 13 healthy subjects; they were tested for balance on standing position and fencing position, with eyes both closed and open, and for physical fitness characteristics on agility, flexibility and strength. The data were statistically analyzed using the paired samples t-test and Pearson correlation in the SPSS version 20.0 for Windows. The differences were considered significant if the p value was below 0.05. The comparison of the results indicated a better stability with open eyes and statistical difference between keeping the eyes open and closed in the mediolateral movement of the centre of pressure. Correlation analysis showed that anthropometric variables, such as weight and body mass index, influence balance as speed, leg strength and abdominal strength. These relationships may influence the training program in order to develop the body balance at this level.