engleski

Balance and Recreational Alpine Skiing are in a Causative Relationship

Alpine skiing is characterized by non- standardized movements. To manage the ski turns and improve technique, specific motor abilities are required. We aimed to determine importance of balance during initial phases of learning as well as the influence of alpine skiing on balance. 96 participants were randomized into two equal groups. Balance was assessed for both groups on a balance board enabling movements in the anterio- posterior (AP) way. Gyko instrument was positioned in the central, part of the standing surface. Variable assessing balance was absolute AP displacement of instrument from starting point either to anterior or posterior direction in centimetres. Participants performed test with ski boots on. After testing, experimental group participated in 10-day ski-school, while controls refrained from physical activity. Two days after experimental group completed ski-school, test was repeated for all participants. Participants’ baseline characteristics were comparable. There were no differences in initial balance results. Differences in the initial and final test were insignificant for the controls. Experimental group achieved better results after ski-school (IN-35.93 ± 12.62, FIN- 27.68 ± 9.70 ; p=0.00). Improvement was evident for participants with poor (IN- 47.36 ± 11.11, FIN-32.86 ± 10.90 ; p=0.00), and with better initial results (IN-27.77 ± 4.93, FIN-23.98 ± 6.78 ; p=0.02). Ski-school affects balance in recreational skiers. Experimental group improved while control stagnated in balance, suggesting skiing was responsible for positive effects. The essence of ski technique is controlling skies during dynamic conditions. To be successful, skier must attain balance. Ski-school includes learning lateral and circular movements in legs and proper timing of moving center of gravity and its return to central position. To maintain balance, skier must direct inner forces from the center of body mass to the foot and outer ski, where the contact with surface should be placed. Skiing provides the opportunity for constant balance, which leads to its development. Ski boots are important for shielding the ankle and foot from injuries, directing skies and finding balance on skies. But they limit the movements which negatively affects the ability to maintain central balance position while skiing. Therefore, beginners usually have a wider position on skies and a larger support surface. As they improve, they are better in maintaining balance in narrower position. Balance is important for learning ski basics, and vice versa, ski school improves balance.

GYKO ; ski school ; motor ability ; development

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