Neck kinesthesia as a significant contribution to the protection of postural stability in taekwondo fighters

Taekwondo fighters require sufficient postural stability to maintain tactical superiority over an opponent. Postural balance is controlled by somatosensory, visual and vestibular system. Cervical spine has neurophysiological connection the system as well abundance of receptors within connective tissues spine. Guard-specific posture in taekwondo requires constant head neck rotations, therefore deficits cervical could alter balance. The aim study was connections between kinesthesia specific tasks. Sixteen healthy male (22 ±1,3 years age) competing at national level were enrolled study. during a single leg stance while facing forward or with 90° torsion using force plate (Bilateral plate, S2P, Ljubljana, Slovenia) assessed. Kinesthetic awareness measured Butterfly test NeckCare (Butterfly Method, ehf., Reykjavik, Iceland). Statistically significant correlations observed for Undershoot standard deviation Neck standing on non-dominant leg. These most prominent average amplitude centre pressure movement medial-lateral direction (r > 0.85) anterior posterior 0,80) Results this indicate that develop side adaptations control. Increased variability kinesthetic correlated increased body sway kick preferred This can lead higher oscillations fight, decreased stability, prolonged reaction time quickness. Specific training recommended improve fighting performance.