Trunk stability is a fundamental basis for achieving proximal stability and facilitating distal mobility, and is closely associated with balance control and neuromuscular coordination. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Flexi-Bar training performed in different postures on core muscle activation, trunk muscle strength, and balance in sedentary adults. The findings are expected to provide a preliminary foundation for future application in populations with impaired trunk control and poor balance, such as individuals with stroke.
This study will recruite 60 sedentary university students who were randomly assigned to an experimental group (sitting position) or a control group (standing position). The intervention consisted of standardized Flexi-Bar training twice a week, 35 minutes per session, for four weeks. Outcome measures included trunk muscle strength assessed using a handheld dynamometer (MicroFET3), core muscle activation assessed using surface electromyography (sEMG), and static and dynamic balance assessed using the TYMO balance platform and the Y-Balance Test, respectively.
Aged 18-25 years and currently enrolled as university students.
Classified as having a low level of physical activity based on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), with a total physical activity level of <600 MET-min/week.
Reported a daily sitting time of ≥6 hours.
Did not participate in any other core stability or balance training during the study period.
Develop discomfort, pain, or other safety concerns during the study period and are assessed by the research team as being unsuitable for continued participation.
Are unable to fully comply with or complete the study intervention or assessment procedures.
Parallel
Flexi-Bar training with sitting posture
BehavioralThe intervention consisted of standardized Flexi-Bar training with sitting posture twice a week, 35 minutes per session, for four weeks.
Flexi-Bar training with standing posture
BehavioralThe intervention consisted of standardized Flexi-Bar training with standing posture twice a week, 35 minutes per session, for four weeks.
Muscle strength (trunk flexors)
Muscle strength will be measured using a handheld dynamometer (MicroFET3; Hoggan Health Industries, Salt Lake City, UT, USA).
Muscle strength (trunk extensors)
Muscle strength will be measured using a handheld dynamometer (MicroFET3; Hoggan Health Industries, Salt Lake City, UT, USA).
Muscle strength (Trunk rotator muscles)
Muscle strength will be measured using a handheld dynamometer (MicroFET3; Hoggan Health Industries, Salt Lake City, UT, USA).
Muscle strength (Trunk lateral flexor muscles)
Muscle strength will be measured using a handheld dynamometer (MicroFET3; Hoggan Health Industries, Salt Lake City, UT, USA).
EMG activity (µV) of rectus abdominis during performing balance task
EMG activity (µV) of rectus abdominis during performing balance task will be recorded using the commercially wireless system (Delsys Inc., United States).
EMG activity (µV) of external oblique during performing balance task
EMG activity (µV) of external oblique during performing balance task will be recorded using the commercially wireless system (Delsys Inc., United States).
EMG activity (µV) of erector spinae
EMG activity (µV) of erector spinae during performing balance task will be recorded using the commercially wireless system (Delsys Inc., United States).
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
