The Relationship Between Core Stability and Leg Stiffness in Male and Female Athletes

Abstract

Purpose: Core stability and leg stiffness are two determinant mechanisms in athletic performance\rand risk injury. This study aimed to investigate the gender differences and relationship of these\rtwo factors in athletes.\rMethods: In this cross-sectional study, core stability and leg stiffness of 12 male and 12 female\rIranian squash players at national level were examined utilizing McGill’s test (including flexor,\rextensor, left side bridge and right side bridge tests) and hopping test at 2.2 Hz. Total core stability\rwas calculated by integrating its 4 parts and their ratios which were considered as balance criteria\rof core stability. Leg stiffness was normalized to body mass. Independent t test and Pearson\rcorrelation test were performed to investigate the research purposes. All statistical analyses were\rdone using SPSS 16.0.\rResults: The core stability in two groups had no significant difference. However, the female\rgroup had more unbalanced core stability than male group. Leg stiffness was higher in male\rgroup than the female group but this difference disappeared after normalizing body mass. The\rsignificant correlation between core stability and leg stiffness was explored (r=0.46, P=0.02).\rConclusion: Although the female participants of the study achieved the same scores as males,\rtheir unbalanced core and possible adopted strategy to compensate their less stiff structures, may\rexpose them to greater injury risk. These results are noteworthy for designing training programs\rand choosing proper movement strategies. The significant, but weak correlation between\rvariables indicates the power transmitting role of core musculature in leg stiffness regulation\rduring hopping that should be considered.