Behm, D. G., Kean, C. O., & Young, W. B. (2006). Task specificity of static and dynamic balance training. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 1757.

The objective of this study was to determine the training-specific effects of static and dynamic balance training on static and dynamic balance (muscle activation during landing), jump, and sprint performance. Recreationally active females were divided into static balance training (N= 11), dynamic balance training (N = 7), and control (N = 6) groups and were tested pre- and post-training Experimental Ss completed either static or dynamic balance exercises four times per week for six weeks. Surface electromyography was used to assess preparatory and reactive muscle activity of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and the soleus during one- and two-foot landings following a jump. Maximum vertical jump height, static balance, and 20-meter sprint times were also measured.

The static balance-training group showed a 33% improvement in static balance and 9% improvement in jump height performances. There was a significant overall increase in reactive rectus femoris activity when landing. The static balance group showed a 33% increase in reactive rectus femoris activity, and significantly less reactive coactivation following training.

Implication. Static balance training appears to have specific and general effects on balance.

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