Effect of proprioceptive training along with breathing and imagery on performance of gymnasts at various levels

Abstract

Thirty Two male gymnasts, under the age groups under-13 and above-13 of Sports Authority of India Training Scheme at LNCPE were selected for the study. They were further divided into experimental groups and control groups. The test variables were 1) test for proprioception on Biodex Balance System (BBS), which included nine parameters: overall stability index, its mean deflection and standard deviation, anterior/posterior deflection, its mean deflection and standard deviation, medial/lateral deflection, its mean deflection and standard deviation and 2) gymnastics performance test specifically designed for the purpose and 3) breathing and imagery. The pre-tests were taken for all the gymnasts and the experimental groups underwent 8 weeks proprioceptive training on BBS; during tests were taken after that and again the experimental groups underwent proprioceptive training along with breathing and imagery for 6 more weeks. Post-tests were then conducted for all the gymnasts. The post-tests revealed significant improvement in the performance and certain parameters of test for proprioception of gymnasts of the experimental groups as a result of training. This study shows that such training may be included in the regular training programme of gymnasts.