Sex-based comparison of trunk flexors and extensors functional and contractile characteristics in young gymnasts

Abstract Purpose Gymnastics is a sport characterized by acrobatic and postural strength exercises that require great trunk muscles activation control. Males females can be different morphological neuromuscular characteristics of such muscles, this might importance for training injury prevention. The aim study was to measure aspects flexors extensors in sample young female male gymnasts. Methods Twenty-eight sub-elite adolescent ( n = 14, 16 y, 14–17) 17 14–18) gymnasts participated cross-sectional study. Tensiomyography used assess muscle contractile properties the rectus abdominis (m.RA) erector spinae (m.ES), while thickness assessed abdominal lumbar multifidus (m.LM) with ultrasound. Flexors, extensors, lateral endurance tests were performed. Results Females presented smaller m.ES radial displacement p < 0.001, pη 2 0.535), internal oblique 0.543), shorter 0.002, 0.302). A significant side × sex interaction found external 0.004, 0.276). Conclusion Present findings report sex-based differences support development rehabilitation protocols