Assessing postural balance control in young dinghy sailors pre, during and post training sessions

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Human Movement

Background:

• Postural balance is crucial for optimal performance in dinghy sailing.
• Young athletes may experience unique adaptations to training stimuli.
• Understanding acute training effects can inform performance enhancement strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the immediate impact of a dinghy sailing training session on postural balance in young sailors.
• To quantify changes in center of pressure (CoP) sway path and area following training.
• To explore the relationship between sailing activity and postural control.

Main Methods:

• Twelve competitive young dinghy sailors participated in balance assessments over three days.
• Balance tests were conducted on stable and unstable surfaces with eyes open and closed.
• Center of pressure (CoP) sway path and area were measured using a Wii Balance Board (WBB) before, during, and after training sessions.

Main Results:

• A general improvement in balance control was observed across most measured parameters.
• Significant reductions in CoP sway path and area were found on an unstable surface, particularly with eyes closed.
• These improvements were evident after a single training session on both the second and third days.

Conclusions:

• Sailing training sessions induce short-term improvements in postural control among young athletes.
• Acute enhancements in balance may be linked to immediate neuromuscular adaptations from the dynamic sailing environment.
• The observed effects are temporary, highlighting the need for further research into long-term training benefits and retention.