FEATURES OF POSTURAL BALANCE IN SKIERS OF VARIOUS SPECIALIZATIONS AT THE TRAINING PHASE OF ATHLETIC PREPARATION

Abstract

Aim. This paper aims to identify the features of postural balance in skiers during the training phase of athletic preparation, taking into account their sex and skiing specialization. Materials and methods. The study involved 30 athletes (15 males and 15 females) during the training phase of athletic preparation in the following skiing disciplines: cross-country skiing, biathlon, and polyathlon. Postural balance was assessed in a series of tests using the Stabilan-01-2 force platform. The significance of differences between force platform measurements in different groups was evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results. The study revealed certain sex- and discipline-related features of postural balance, both between cross-country skiers and polyathletes and within the polyathlon group. However, differences in mean postural balance measurements between athletes of different sexes and specializations were not statistically confirmed. Conclusion. Postural balance in athletes at the training phase of athletic preparation shows certain sex- and discipline-related features across different skiing specializations. Compared to cross-country skiers, athletes with shooting skills demonstrate better postural control, with polyathletes showing a stronger tendency toward active muscle control than biathletes. These findings may be used to determine training priorities for skiers at the training phase of athletic preparation and to consider the possibility of changing athletic specialization.