A Physiologically-Based Approach to Study Different Types of Locomotion in Association with Core Performance

Download or read book A Physiologically-Based Approach to Study Different Types of Locomotion in Association with Core Performance written by Erika Zemková and published by Frontiers Media SA. This book was released on 2024-11-11 with total page 150 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Good posture and strong core muscles are essential for most athletic movements, but also for everyday activities. Among them, walking and running require lumbo-pelvic stability and mobility for efficient movement and high-level performace. This is especially important during a large range of trunk motions when changing the direction of movement, an abrupt walk to run transition, or extreme uphill and downhill walking or running. Such repetitive trunk loading over time can contribute to occurence of back problems and lower limb injuries. To avoid these unwanted effects, a novel approach to studying the physiology of locomotion in relation to spine motion and balance function is required. This can provide a basis for designing exercise programs specifically tailored for competitive athletes, the healthy general population, as well as those suffering from movement disorders. So far, much effort has been devoted to investigating the biomechanical and physiological variations of locomotion, including walking, running, swimming or hopping. However, a surprising gap in the evidence is to what extent core strength contributes to effective locomotor performance and a healthy back. Studying the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying the control of postural and core stability, with special reference to locomotion, is therefore of great importance.