GENERAL PROFILE OF POSTURAL BALANCE IN ACROBATS FROM THE PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENT GROUP

Abstract

Aim: This paper aims to define specific characteristics of postural balance in female acrobats from the performance enhancement group. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at Vyatka State University in Kirov, Russia. It involved 24 female athletes from the national sports acrobatics team, including 10 Masters of Sport and 14 Candidates for Master of Sport. Postural balance was assessed using the Biokinect force platform during the Romberg test (feet together), with eyes both open and closed. Results. The study revealed a number of statistically significant intergroup differences. Female Masters of Sport had a lower Romberg coefficient (р ≤ 0.05), indicating reduced reliance on visual control and an enhanced role of proprioceptive control. Masters of Sport demonstrated greater postural balance, evidenced by a significantly lower center of pressure velocity with both eyes open and closed (р ≤ 0.05). Conclusion. In acrobatics, an increase in sports qualification is accompanied by qualitative changes in postural control, including reduced energy cost, greater postural balance, the emergence of a proprioceptive mechanism for upright stance, and a diminished role of the visual analyzer in balance maintenance. These findings can be used to develop specialized training programs aimed at improving postural balance.