Study on the effect of unstable surface balance training on lower limb dynamic balance ability and stroke effect of table tennis players

This study aims to investigate the effect of unstable surface balance training (USBT) on the dynamic balance ability of the lower limb and stroke effect of table tennis players. A double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) design was conducted in this study. A total of 103 table tennis players were randomly divided into an experimental group (ExG, n = 52) and a control group (ConG, n = 51). The ExG engaged in their regular table tennis training along with an additional 8-week USBT program. The ConG only participated in regular table tennis training. Both groups underwent the Y-balance test (YBT) and stroke effect test before and after the intervention. Before the intervention, there were no significant differences in the YBT and stroke effect test results between the ExG and ConG. After eight weeks of intervention, there were significant differences in YBT and stroke effect between the ExG and ConG (all p < 0.01). The ExG showed significant differences in YBT and stroke effect test indicators between the pre- and post-intervention (all p < 0.01), while the ConG did not show significant changes in any test indicators (all p > 0.05). An 8-week USBT intervention can significantly improve the dynamic balance ability of the lower limb and stroke effect of table tennis players.