Improving the physical components of gymnastics athletes following long-term circuit training with static and dynamic core stabilization

Background and Study Aim. Core stability is a fundamental aspect of gymnastics performance, essential for balance, flexibility, and overall strength. This study aims to investigate the effects of long-term circuit training with static and dynamic core stabilization on physical components in gymnasts. Material and Methods. This study used a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. A total of 42 participants were randomly assigned to three groups: a control group (CTR, n=14), a static core stabilization group (CSS, n=14), and a dynamic core stabilization group (CSD, n=14). The intervention programs for static and dynamic core stabilization included six distinct exercises. These exercises were performed three times per week over an 8-week period. Data were collected at two time points: pretest and posttest. Physical components assessed included flexibility, balance, and the strength of the abdominal, back, leg, and arm muscles. Data analysis was conducted using a paired sample t-test with the significance level set at 5%. Results. The results showed significant improvements in flexibility (cm), balance (s), back muscle strength (kg), abdominal muscle strength (repetitions), and arm muscle strength (repetitions) in the core stabilization groups between the pretest and posttest (p ≤ 0.05). However, no significant changes were observed in leg muscle strength (kg) (p ≥ 0.05). When comparing groups, significant differences were noted in balance (s), back muscle strength (kg), abdominal muscle strength (repetitions), and arm muscle strength (repetitions) (p ≤ 0.05). Flexibility (cm) and leg muscle strength (kg) did not show significant differences between groups (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusions. The study highlights the importance of incorporating core stabilization exercises into circuit training programs for gymnasts. Both static and dynamic approaches to core stabilization provide valuable strategies for optimizing physical conditioning and enhancing athletic performance. These findings can inform the development of evidence-based training protocols aimed at improving key physical attributes critical for gymnastics.