Analysis of correlation between core stability and performance

It’s known that core ability is involved in power exercises, allowing strength transfer from trunk to distal limbs (Sharrock, 2011). Aim of the study was to identify whether core stability can influence sports performance. Fifty healthy students (30 males and 20 females; age: 20.6 ± 1.4 years; height 174.8 ± 8.6 cm; weight 68.1 ± 13.4 kg) performed twice the following tests. The independent variables were maximal isometric endurance positions using McGill test (MG): Back Extension (BE), Trunk Flexion (TF), Right Bridge (RB), Left Bridge (LB) (Nesser 2008). The dependent variables were Standing Long Jump (SLJ), Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), Medicine Ball Throw with crossed legs, in standing and in dynamics (MBT1, MBT2, MBT3) and Accuracy of a tennis ball Throwing, executed with previous described modalities (AT1, AT2, AT3). Statistical software (SPSS 16.0; Chicago, ILL) was used to perform statistical analyses. In order to test measurements reliability, Intra Class Coefficient (Cronbach α) was used with all data. Relationships between dependent and indipendent variables, as well as inter dependent variables were determined using multiple bivariate correlations, represented by Pearson correlation coefficient. Statistical significance was set at p≤0.05. Significant correlations were found between RB and SLJ (r=0.440), MTB1 (r=0.508), MBT2 (r=0.495), MBT3 (r=0.473) and AT3, considering simultaneously both sprint time and the score of the launch (r=-0.288); between LB and SLJ (r=0.533), the three modalities to execute the MBT (r=0.504, r=0.481, r=0.489) and AT3 (r=-0.281); finally, between MG and SLJ (r=0.290), and MBT1 (r=0.325). In the light of the data we obtained, it is possible to suggest that training of trunk stability muscles can bring benefits improving long jump, throwing and toss accuracy in dynamic conditions, typical team sports tasks . Sharrock C et al, Int J Sport Phys Ther, 2011, 6(2): 63-74 Nesser TW et al., J Strength Cond Res, 2008, 22(6): 1750-5