Do gymnasts experience symmetrical limb loading when performing foundation gymnastics skills?

Rhiannon A. Campbell, Elizabeth J. Bradshaw, Nick Ball, Adam Hunter, Wayne Spratford

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference proceeding contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Uneven asymmetrical landings in artistic gymnastics is considered a risk factor for injury. The aim of this research was to investigate if gymnasts experience asymmetrical upper and lower limb loading when performing foundation gymnastics skills on floor. Sixteen competitive level gymnasts (male= 8, female= 8) performed seven different gymnastics skills while wearing four inertial measurement units located bilaterally on the distal forearm and tibias. Every gymnastics skill showed significant inter-limb asymmetry (range z= -5.8, -6.0, p<0.001) and every gymnast demonstrated intra-limb variability for at least one gymnastics skill. However, the level of asymmetry observed varied between skills and also gymnasts, meaning individual screening is needed to identify gymnasts, limbs and skills that may be at a higher risk for injury.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationISBS Proceedings Archive
Place of PublicationOxford, OH, United States
Pages157-160
Number of pages4
Volume37
Edition1
Publication statusPublished - 2019
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • IMU
  • asymmetry
  • accelerometer
  • gymnastics

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