DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA FOR POSTURAL CONTROL OF SKILLED AND UNSKILLED GYMNASTS AND CHEERLEADERS

Abstract

Aim. The paper aims to establish the role of visual control in maintenance of the vertical position in skilled and unskilled female rhythmic gymnasts and cheerleaders by means of force plate measurements. Materials and methods. The study involved 92 female athletes aged from 13 to 15 years, including 38 unskilled and 54 skilled athletes of the Rostov region. The following vector parameters were obtained with the force platform: balance quality, normalized vectorgram area, mean linear velocity, mean angular velocity. Results. The comparative analysis of balance quality in skilled and unskilled female athletes showed that both skilled gymnasts and cheerleaders (bases and flyers) had better balance values (p < 0.05) compared to unskilled athletes. As a rule, the normalized vectorgram area was smaller at baseline and significantly larger with the head turned to the right/left (p < 0.05). Mean angular velocities were lower in unskilled cheerleaders compared to skilled ones (flyers) during the target test, at baseline and with the head turned to the right. Conclusion. Balance significantly affects athletic performance, especially when it comes to complex movements in such disciplines as rhythmic gymnastics or cheerleading. The vertical position is provided by different levels of the central nervous system and sensory systems. The results obtained in skilled athletes of two athletic disciplines and the features of vector parameters in unskilled athletes compared to skilled ones can be used for methodical recommendations aimed at the improvement of training for rhythmic gymnasts and cheerleaders.