Biomechanical and Posturographic Aspects of the Foot as a Basis of the Sport’s Postural Characteristics

Regular sports activity induces kinesiological adaptations and alters musculoskeletal configuration, influencing postural control and balance. These adaptations vary by sport type and may differentiate athletes from non-athletes. This study analysed the effect of regular physical activity, including high-performance sport participation, on postural stability and examined whether this influence is reflected in static sway parameters. The study included 88 men divided into an athlete group (S: n = 46) and a non-athlete control group (NS: n = 42). A comparative design was used to assess differences between groups. Postural diagnostics were carried out with the Feemed Maxi baropodometric platform, enabling precise evaluation of plantar pressure distribution and standing stability. Athletes demonstrated greater asymmetry in foot-loading distribution globally and within partial plantar segments. Mean asymmetry values were higher in athletes (total foot: +3.131; forefoot: −2.414; rearfoot: +2.413) than in non-athletes (total foot: −2.472; forefoot: +0.983; rearfoot: −1.317). The primary statistically significant finding was a greater anteroposterior centre-of-pressure displacement in athletes, indicating increased sagittal-plane postural load (p < 0.001), whereas mediolateral displacement remained minimal and non-significant (NS: −0.012; S: −0.011; p = 0.891). Overall normalised CoP position was slightly higher in non-athletes (10.245%) than in athletes (10.103%). Long-term sports loading influences plantar pressure distribution and postural mechanics through subtle, often subclinical adaptations shaped by training level, sport specialisation, and individual biomechanical characteristics.