External load training does not alter balance performance in well-trained women

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Balance is crucial for athletic performance and injury prevention.
• External load training (ELT) is a novel method to potentially enhance physical capabilities.
• The impact of ELT on static and dynamic balance requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of external load training (ELT) on static and dynamic balance in females.
• To compare balance performance between a group undergoing ELT and a control group.
• To assess balance changes during and after a detraining period.

Main Methods:

• Nineteen females were divided into ELT (n=9) and control (n=10) groups.
• The ELT group wore weighted vests (~8% body mass) for 32 hours/week for 3 weeks, followed by 3 weeks of detraining.
• Static balance (eyes open/closed) and dynamic balance (Star Excursion Balance Test - SEBT) were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and post-detraining.

Main Results:

• The control group showed reduced centre of pressure (COP) velocity in static balance with eyes closed on the non-dominant limb.
• The ELT group demonstrated improved SEBT reach distances in posteromedial and medial directions on the dominant limb.
• No significant overall improvements in balance were observed for the ELT group compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

• External load training (ELT) did not lead to significant improvements in static or dynamic balance compared to the control group.
• While specific dynamic balance measures showed gains, the overall effect was not statistically significant.
• Further research is warranted to explore ELT as a supplemental training method for balance enhancement.