BALANCE VARIABILITY DURING THE PYRAMID EXECUTION IN ACROBATIC GYMNASTICS

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyse the relationship between intra-trial variability in balance scores obtained via a force platform and acrobatic gymnasts’ pyramid scores provided by a qualified and experienced judge. Twelve acrobatic gymnasts grouped in pairs performed five successful straddle lever pyramids on two force platforms with one foot on each platform. The variability of path length of the centre of pressure of each foot was examined to analyse the balance of the pyramid. The variability of path length was negatively correlated with pyramid score in both legs, non-preferred (rho = -0.706 [very large]) and preferred leg (rho = -0.530 [large]). The results suggest a relationship between intra-trial variability and pyramid performance.