The Relationship Between Hip Strength Asymmetry, Postural Alignment, and Balance Performance

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of hip flexion (FLX) and extension (EXT) strengths and their asymmetries on static and dynamic balance performance and postural alignment parameters. The study was conducted with the participation of 26 sedentary women (age: 20.80 ± 1.68 years; height: 166 ± 5.73 cm; weight: 59.60 ± 12.49 kg). Isokinetic strength, bilateral strength asymmetries, static and dynamic balance, and postural analyses were investigated. No significant difference was found in hip FLX and EXT strengths between the dominant and non-dominant lower extremities (p > .05). Asymmetry rates reaching 15.5% in the FLX direction were found to be associated with dynamic balance, while these rates remained below 15% in the EXT direction. While no significant relationship was found between static balance parameters and strength asymmetries (p > .05), a moderate relationship was found between dynamic balance and FLX asymmetry (p < .05). In static balance analyses, postural sway, ellipse area, and perimeter values were found to be significantly higher in the non-dominant extremity (p < .05). The relationship between hip FLX and EXT strengths and static balance performances were significant (p < .05). In addition, moderate relationships were observed between shoulder alignment and FLX torques (p < .05). Pelvic tilt and frontal body alignment showed significant relationships with oscillation in the X-axis (p < .05). Findings indicate that hip strength and posture significantly affect dynamic balance. A FLX strength asymmetry above 15% may impair balance, and postural deviations may impact static balance. Thus, both factors should be considered in improving athletes’ balance control.Cite this article as: Ateş, B., Yüksel, B., Uzuner, K., Acar, Ş. T., & Ölmez, C. (2025). The relationship between hip strength asymmetry, postural alignment, and balance performance. Research in Sports Science,15, 0066, doi: 10.5152/rss.2025.25066.