The Relationship Between Core Stability and Leg Stiffness in Male and Female Athletes

Purpose: Core stability and leg stiffness are two determinant mechanisms in athletic performance and risk injury. This study aimed to investigate the gender differences and relationship of these two factors in athletes. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, core stability and leg stiffness of 12 male and 12 female Iranian squash players at national level were examined utilizing McGill’s test (including flexor, extensor, left side bridge and right side bridge tests) and hopping test at 2.2 Hz. Total core stability was calculated by integrating its 4 parts and their ratios which were considered as balance criteria of core stability. Leg stiffness was normalized to body mass. Independent t test and Pearson correlation test were performed to investigate the research purposes. All statistical analyses were done using SPSS 16.0. Results: The core stability in two groups had no significant difference. However, the female group had more unbalanced core stability than male group. Leg stiffness was higher in male group than the female group but this difference disappeared after normalizing body mass. The significant correlation between core stability and leg stiffness was explored (r=0.46, P=0.02). Conclusion: Although the female participants of the study achieved the same scores as males, their unbalanced core and possible adopted strategy to compensate their less stiff structures, may expose them to greater injury risk. These results are noteworthy for designing training programs and choosing proper movement strategies. The significant, but weak correlation between variables indicates the power transmitting role of core musculature in leg stiffness regulation during hopping that should be considered.