In high performance sports, both the stabilizing function of the trunk as a base for limb movements as well as the generative function for propulsive power are determinants of the competition outcome. For the triathlete, the trunk is a stabilizer in the bike leg, whereas in the swim and partly in the run the athlete benefits from the propulsion generated by the core muscles (Sato & Mokha, 2009; Santana, 2005; Abt et al., 2007). Additionally, a positive influence of core strength for the prevention of injuries is described in the literature. To date, there is limited research regarding the quantification of core strength. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the level of core strength of triathletes in comparison with other sports, as well as examining potential differences between genders, age groups, training status, and also how these measures change over a 4 and 12 month period. The sample in this pilot study consisted of 49 German national and regional squad triathletes (21 female, 28 male; age 19.2 ± 3.0). To measure their isometric maximum force in the sagittal, lateral and transverse planes in trunk movement, a computer-based testing and training system was used (Pegasus, BfMC, Leipzig, Germany). The power output was normalised using the individual torque of the upper body. Overall, the triathletes possessed a good level of strength even though large individual differences were detected. Deficits in core strength exist when comparing the female triathletes with other sports (i.e. swimming, rowing, canoeing and athletics). Female triathletes also had significantly less core strength than their male counterparts. No significant differences were determined between the age groups or the training status. Improvements in core strength were observed in the repeated measurements at 4 and 12 months, especially in the dorsal musculature of those athletes who incorporated strength training with barbells. However, more research on this topic is required before the relationship between core strength and triathlon performance can be better understood. Therefore, further work is required to establish the optimal core strength program for triathletes and its potential for injury prevention. References: Abt, J.P., Smoliga, J.M., Brick, M.J., Jolly, J.T., Lephart, S.M. & Fu, F.H. (2007). Relationship be-tween Cycling Mechanics and Core Stability. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Re-search, 21, 1300-1304. Santana, J. (2005). Strength Training for Swimmers: Training the Core. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 27 (2), 40-42. Sato, K. & Mokha, M. (2009). Does Core Strength Training Influence Running Kinetics, Lower-Extremity Stability, and 5000-m Performance in Runners? Journal of Strength and Condi-tioning Research, 23, 133-140. Diagnostic and Evaluation of the Core Strength of Triathletes. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265793641_Diagnostic_and_Evaluation_of_the_Core_Strength_of_Triathletes
© Copyright 2013 All rights reserved.