The effect of a pelvic floor and deep core muscle strengthening program on dynamic and static balance in 12–18-year-old bouldering athletes

Abstract

<p>Aim of the study: Bouldering is a young and rapidly growing sport characterized by high demands for stability and coordination. During adolescence, biomechanical changes can impair balance, coordination, and increase the risk of injuries. Although the importance of pelvic floor and deep core muscles for stability is well established, the impact of strengthening these muscles in youth bouldering athletes remains under-researched. Aim of the study – to evaluate the effects of a 12-week pelvic floor and deep core muscle strengthening program on static and dynamic balance in 12–18- year-old adolescents engaged in bouldering.</p> Methods: The study included 24 adolescents (mean age 15 ± 1.69 years) actively participating in bouldering. Dynamic balance was assessed using the Y Balance Test in three directions for both legs (six measurements total). Static balance was evaluated using the Zebris-FTM platform by analyzing center of pressure (COP) movement parameters.</p> Results: Improvements in dynamic balance were observed in both the control and experimental groups; however, the experimental group demonstrated better symmetry between the right and left legs. Following the intervention, statistical significant enhancements in static balance were recorded in the experimental group, evidenced by reductions in center of pressure, path length and ellipse area. No significant correlations were identified between static and dynamic balance parameters.</p> Conclusions: The pelvic floor and deep core muscle strengthening program had a positive effect on both static and dynamic balance in adolescent bouldering athletes and may support adaptation to biomechanical changes during growth.</p>