Volume 5, Issue 1 (6-2019)                   J Sport Biomech 2019, 5(1): 62-71 | Back to browse issues page

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Nourizadeh S, Mirjani M, Naserpour H. The Relationship Between Core Stability, Muscular Endurance, and Static Balance, and Shooting Function in Military Soldiers. J Sport Biomech 2019; 5 (1) :62-71
URL: http://biomechanics.iauh.ac.ir/article-1-192-en.html
1- Department of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Gilan University, Rasht, Iran.
2- Department of Sport Injuries and Corrective Exercises, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran.
3- Department of Sport Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
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Extended Abstract
1. Introduction

Maintaining postural stability or balance is an essential component of most sports, especially in the field of gun shooting. When the human skeletal structure is in balance, the body’s lever system is at maximum efficiency and consumes the least energy. Therefore, researchers have acknowledged balance as one of the most important parts of the ability of athletes performing different activities [1, 2].
An essential factor in maintaining body balance and movement is sufficient strength and endurance in the central body region. This region includes the abdominal muscles, the muscles around the spine and the gluteal region, the diaphragm, and the pelvic floor muscles. The 29 muscle pairs in this area form a muscle ring and help stabilize the spine and pelvis during functional movements. When this system works properly, it forces the power to move efficiently through the moving chain. Without these muscles, the spine becomes mechanically unstable [61].
Considering the importance of shooting and physical fitness, there is inadequate information on how to improve the performance of military shooting. Furthermore, most researchers have studied the effect of core stability and balance on the performance of athletes in different sports or examined the effect of a training program on core stability strength on athletes’ balance. However, studies overlooked the effect of core stability, muscle endurance, and static balance in the shooting. Thus, prospective research and evidence regarding the training and enhancement of core stability and physical balance are essential in specific motor activities, like shooting. According to the literature, most research has focused on the effects of core stability and balance exercises. 
Besides, there is no research exploring the relationship between shooting and core stability muscles endurance and static balance among military personnel. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between core stability muscles endurance and static balance, and shooting performance in military soldiers.
2. Methods
The study subjects were 100 inclusive soldiers of the Disciplinary Force of the Islamic Republic of Iran (NAJA) Training Center (mean±SD age: 23.92±1.66 years; weight: 73.96±12.77 kg). Their mean shooting scores were recorded by the range officer and divided into two equal groups with a record of >60< points. To assess core stability muscles endurance, a series of tests consisted of core stability exercises were used [14]. A record of 5 tests (plank, side plank to the right, side plank to the left, trunk flexor, and trunk extensor) was used to assess core stability muscles endurance [51, 61, 21]. A stork test was applied to measure static balance. Using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, the obtained data were analyzed for normality. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was implemented to examine the relationship between shooting scores and core stability and balance. Moreover, the Independent Samples t-test was used to compare the data between shooting scores of >60 and <60 at the significance level of 0.05.
3. Results
Statistical test results suggested a significant correlation between the mean shooting scores and total records of core stability muscles endurance (P=0.000, r=0.661), as well as shooting and static balance tests (P=0.000, r=0.684). There was also a significant correlation between static balance and the total records of core stability muscles endurance tests (P=0.000, r=0.718). Independent Samples t-test data revealed a significant difference between the two groups in the level of core stability muscles endurance and static balance (P=0.000). In other words, those in the group of >60 points had significantly better core stability muscles endurance and static balance than the group of below 4. Discussion
The current study examined the relationship between core stability, muscle endurance, and static balance, and shooting performance. The achieved results indicated a significant relationship between shooting scores and core stability and balance scores. In other words, the study participants with core stability and better static balance were more capable of targeting when shooting. Individuals with higher core stability also suggested better balance. Accordingly, that group was more successful at targeting. Improving the stability of the central body increased dynamic and static stability and improved the performance of athletes [14, 21]. Shooting sports require high biopsychological fitness. In general, high physical fitness improves shooting performance [21]. Exercising the core muscles of the body could help improve the muscular activation patterns of the trunk muscles. Moreover, shooting sports require targeting and maintaining balance with the rifle; thus, individuals with better balance and robust core stability are expected to achieve better results when shooting [22, 23]. 
5. Conclusion
The study findings revealed that core stability and balance positively impact shooters’ performance. The performance and accuracy of military shooting are critical; therefore, it is recommended to include some balancing and reinforcing training in the military exercises to strengthen the core stability muscles to improve military shooting performance.
Ethical Considerations
Compliance with ethical guidelines
Prior to study, the study method and objectives were explained to the participants and then, they signed an informed consent form.
Funding
This study received no financial support from any organization.
Authors' contributions
Conceptualization, methodology, resources, draft preparation: Saeed Nourizadeh; Analysis, editing and review: Mona Mirjani, and Hamidreza Naserpour.
Conflicts of interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Type of Study: Applicable | Subject: Special
Received: 2018/12/5 | Accepted: 2019/04/18 | Published: 2019/06/1

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