The Relationship Between Lower Extremity Strength, Dynamic Balance, and Core Endurance in Elite Youth Rowers: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
The Relationship Between Lower Extremity Strength, Dynamic Balance, and Core Endurance in Elite Youth Rowers: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
This study aims to investigate the relationship between lower extremity isokinetic strength, dynamic balance, and core muscle endurance in elite adolescent rowers aged 16-18. A total of 68 athletes (32 males, 36 females) will be assessed through standardized protocols involving isokinetic testing, the Y Balance Test, and McGill Core Endurance Tests. The study aims to contribute to performance monitoring and injury prevention strategies in rowing sports.
This observational cross-sectional study aims to investigate the relationships between lower extremity muscle strength, dynamic balance, and core endurance in elite adolescent rowers aged 16-18. A total of 68 rowers (32 females, 36 males) licensed by the Turkish Rowing Federation were included. All participants had a minimum of two years of rowing experience and trained at least four days per week.
Lower extremity muscle strength was assessed using isokinetic dynamometry at angular velocities of 60°/s and 300°/s. Core endurance was evaluated using the McGill Core Endurance Test Battery, including trunk flexor, extensor, and lateral plank tests. Dynamic balance was assessed via the Y Balance Test and normalized to leg length.
The study also examined potential sex-based differences in neuromuscular performance and investigated inter-variable correlations among muscle strength, balance, and core endurance. In addition, asymmetry in dynamic balance performance was analyzed as a risk factor for performance and injury.
This study is expected to provide practical insights for sports physiotherapists and coaches working with adolescent rowers, particularly in optimizing performance and designing sex-specific injury prevention strategies.
Inclusion Criteria:
Elite adolescent rowers aged 16 to 18 years
Licensed athletes training at least 5 days per week
Registered with a national-level rowing team or rowing education program
Minimum 2 years of regular rowing experience
No current musculoskeletal or neurological injury
Voluntary participation with informed consent (parental consent required for minors)
Exclusion Criteria:
History of lower extremity or spinal surgery
Current injury or condition affecting strength, balance, or posture
Diagnosed neurological disorder or vestibular dysfunction
Acute illness, severe fatigue, or muscle soreness on the day of testing
Active menstruation phase in female participants on the day of testing
Lack of cooperation or unwillingness to follow instructions