Background: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive lung disease marked by excessive fibrosis and declining respiratory function. While pharmacological treatments help manage symptoms, they offer limited reversal of fibrosis and often have side effects. As a result, interest in rehabilitation approaches such as breathing exercises combined with self-myofascial release (SMR) has increased. These techniques may enhance trunk stability and thoracic flexibility, contributing to improved respiratory function. Objectives: This study investigated the effects of thoracic expansion exercises using SMR techniques on pulmonary function and chest mobility in a patient with PF, and assessed their clinical applicability. Design: Single-subject A-B-A′ design. Methods: A 60s male with idiopathic PF underwent 20 days of intervention. Standard rehabilitation was applied during baseline (A) and follow-up (A′) phases. During the intervention (B), SMR-based breathing exercises were added. Outcomes included Functional Reach Test (FRT), chest expansion, and pulmonary function tests (FVC, FEV₁, PEF, FEV₁/FVC). Data were analyzed using the 2SD band method. Results: FRT improved from 23.4 cm (A) to 31.3 cm (B) and 34.2 cm (A′). Chest expansion increased from 1.7 cm to 2.8 cm, and FVC rose from 1.70 L to 2.08 L before dropping to 0.94 L. FEV₁/FVC improved from 80.8% to 86.7% during intervention but decreased at follow-up. Conclusion: SMR-based thoracic expansion exercises may enhance trunk stability, thoracic mobility, and certain pulmonary function indicators in PF patients. These findings suggest potential clinical benefits, warranting further studies to confirm long-term effectiveness.
Background: Flexible flatfoot impairs gait and posture by weakening arch support, potentially leading to musculoskeletal dysfunction. Strengthening exercises, such as the short foot exercise (SFE), have shown promise in correcting this condition. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of SFE with visual feedback on medial arch height and foot function in adults with flexible flatfoot. Design: Experimental research. Methods: Adults diagnosed with flexible flatfoot were randomly assigned to either an experimental or control group. The experimental group performed SFE with visual feedback, whereas the control group performed the same exercises without feedback. Both groups trained three times per week for five weeks. Outcome measures included the Navicular Drop Test (NDT), YBalance Test (YBT), and Tetrax postural analysis. Results: In the NDT, both groups showed significant improvements (P<.05), while in the YBT, only the experimental group showed a significant improvement (P<.05). In contrast, there were no significant changes in the Weight Distribution Index (WDI) and Stability Test (ST) areas of the Tetrax system in either group (P>.05). Conclusion: SFE effectively improved arch height regardless of visual feedback, though only the visual feedback group showed significant improvements in dynamic balance. However, between-group differences were not statistically significant, suggesting that visual feedback provides subtle rather than substantial additional benefits. Further research with larger samples is needed to establish the clinical value of adding visual feedback to SFE protocols.
Background: Foam roller exercise is widely used for myofascial release and improving joint range of motion. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the most effective session of thoracic foam roller exercise by examining changes in thoracic kyphosis angle (TKA) and trunk active range of motion (AROM) in healthy males in their 20s. Design: Single-group design. Methods: The study analyzed changes in TKA and trunk AROM across sessions following the application of a thoracic foam roller exercise for 45 seconds per session over three sessions in 16 healthy males in their 20s. Results: Compared to pre-test values, TKA significantly decreased and trunk AROM significantly increased after thoracic foam roller exercise (P<0.01). Post hoc analysis showed a significant decrease in TKA in session 3 compared to session 1 (P<0.01). Trunk AROM (flexion, left lateral flexion, right lateral flexion) showed significant changes in sessions 2 and 3 compared to session 1 (P<0.01). Right rotation significantly improved in session 3 compared to session 1 (P<0.01). Conclusions: For managing thoracic vertebral alignment in healthy males in their 20s, three sessions of thoracic foam roller exercise per day are recommended. For improving trunk AROM management, two sessions per day be sufficient.
Background: Core stabilization exercises are a key component of exercises for the conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of two different home-based exercise instruction methods (leaflets versus video materials) for children with AIS performing core stabilization exercises. Design: A retrospective study. Methods: Pediatric outpatients diagnosed with AIS were assigned to either a leaflet group or a YouTube video group. They were instructed to perform core stabilization exercises at home daily, completing three sets per day for six months. Pre- and post-exercise (6 months) evaluations included X-rays to measure the Cobb angle and the degree of vertebral rotation. Additionally, endurance in maintaining the Superman and Bird-dog positions was assessed. Results: After 6 months of intervention, the leaflet and YouTube groups showed no significant differences regarding Cobb angle, rotational degree, or endurance in the Bird-Dog and Superman positions. However, within-group comparisons before and after the 6-month exercise period showed a significant improvement in Cobb angle in the leaflet group. If exercise leaflets are effectively utilised, they could facilitate the implementation of core stabilization exercises in children with AIS, potentially improving their prognosis. Conclusion: Providing exercise instruction via a leaflet may be more effective than using a YouTube video in facilitating adherence to core stabilization exercises and improving spinal alignment in children with AIS.
Background: Aquatic exercise utilizing hot springs helps individuals with nonspecific knee pain by reducing joint stress and providing a safe environment for movement. It can improve muscle strength and balance, enhancing overall functional mobility. Objects: This study aims to examine the muscle strength of knee flexion, knee extension, dorsiflexion, and plantar flexion, as well as to investigate static and dynamic balance in middleaged females after performing hot spring aquatic exercise for 4 weeks. Methods: Twenty-two middle-aged females participated in the study. The participants performed hot spring aquatic exercise for 4 weeks. The hot spring aquatic exercise consisted of aquatic walking, aquatic stretching, aquatic side step, aquatic forward reach, aquatic squat, leg lift, and aquatic arm and leg rotation. Muscle strength was measured using microFET2, while static balance was assessed through the one-leg stance test, and dynamic balance was evaluated using the Y-balance test. This study utilized the paired t-test for statistical analysis, with a significance level set at 0.05. Results: The muscle strength of bilateral knee flexion showed a significant increase in the pre- and post-comparison (p < 0.05), and the muscle strength of bilateral knee extension also improved significantly (p < 0.05). In addition, a significant increase was observed in the muscle strength of bilateral dorsiflexion (p < 0.05). The one-leg stance test performed while supporting on the right leg showed a significant increase in the pre- and post-comparison (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the dynamic balance measurements performed while supporting on both the right and left legs demonstrated significant improvements in both legs when compared before and after the intervention (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In individuals with nonspecific knee pain, a 4-week hot spring aquatic exercise program can contribute to the improvement of lower extremity strength, as well as static and dynamic balance ability.
Background: Stroke often results in impaired postural control and asymmetric weight distribution, which negatively affect balance and functional mobility. Previous research has demonstrated that balance training interventions incorporating proprioceptive stimulation and visual feedback can enhance postural stability in stroke survivors. However, there remains debate regarding the relative effectiveness of these two approaches. While proprioception-based training emphasizes sensory input from mechanoreceptors to improve postural control, visual feedback-based training leverages external cues to facilitate balance adjustments. Objectives: To investigation the effects of proprioception-based trunk exercise and visual-auditory feedback-based trunk exercise on sitting balance in patients with chronic stroke. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: A total of 24 participants diagnosed with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to two groups: the proprioception-based trunk exercise group (PTG, n=10) and the visual-auditory feedback-based trunk exercise group (VTG, n=11). Both groups participated in a 6-week intervention program, five sessions per week, lasting 25 minutes per session. Outcome measures included the Limitation of Stability (LOS), the Korean version of the Trunk Impairment Scale (K-TIS), and the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were analyzed using paired t-tests and independent t-tests to evaluate within-group and between-group differences. Results: Both PTG and VTG groups demonstrated significant improvements in LOS, K-TIS, and PASS scores following the intervention (P<.05). However, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in the amount of change observed. Conclusion: The findings suggest that both proprioception-based and visualauditory feedback-based trunk exercises are effective in improving sitting balance in chronic stroke patients. The lack of a significant difference between the groups indicates that both approaches provide comparable benefits. Future research should explore long-term effects and investigate potential differences in various functional domains beyond sitting balance.
Background: Subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS) is a prevalent cause of shoulder pain, often linked to abnormal scapular positioning and movement. Prior research suggests that scapular stabilization exercises (SSE) may improve SAIS symptoms, but there's a lack of research on the specific quantitative effects of SSE on scapular position and function. Objectives: To investigated the effects of SSE on scapular position and shoulder function in patients with SAIS. Design: A randomized controlled trial. Methods: Thirty participants with SAIS, diagnosed using the Scapular Dyskinesis Test (SDT), were randomly assigned to either a scapular stabilization exercise group (SSEG, n=15) or a traditional rehabilitation training group (TRTG, n=15). Both groups received eight weeks of intervention. Outcome measures included the scapular index (SI), measured using digital vernier calipers, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Results: The SSE group showed statistically significant increases in scapular index (SI) and significant decreases in Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) pain and disability scores. The TRTG showed no statistically significant changes in these measures. The SSE group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in SI and SPADI scores compared to the TRTG. Conclusion: These findings suggest that SSE may be a valuable treatment option for improving shoulder function and reducing pain in patients with SAIS. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the longterm effects of SSE.
케톤 식이요법(Ketogenic Diet, KD)은 고지방, 적당한 단백 질, 저탄수화물로 식이 패턴으로 최근 몇 년 동안 스포츠 분야 에서 많은 관심을 받고 있다. 본 연구는 케톤 식이요법이 체중 조절 및 운동수행력에 미치는 영향을 검토하고 잠재적인 생리 학적 메커니즘에 대해 논의했다. 케톤 식이요법은 인슐린 분비 를 줄이고 지방 산화를 촉진해서 케톤체의 이용률을 높임으로 써 체지방을 효과적으로 줄이고 체급별 종목의 선수가 안전한 체중 관리를 할 수 있도록 도울 수 있다. 지구력 선수의 경우 케톤 식이요법은 지방 산화 능력을 향상시키고 글리코겐 의존 성을 줄이며 장기간 운동 중에 운동 시간을 연장할 수 있다. 그러나 고강도 무산소성 운동(예: 단거리 달리기, 역도)에서 제 한된 탄수화물은 해당과정의 속도를 감소시키고 에너지 공급에 영향을 미치며 폭발력과 최대 근력을 약화시킬 수 있다. 따라 서 케톤 식이요법은 지구력 운동과 체중 조절이 더 필요한 운 동선수에게 어울리지만 근 성장과 순간 순발력에 의존하는 운 동 종목의 효과는 여전히 논란의 여지가 있다. 이 연구는 케톤 식이요법을 사용할 때 운동수행력을 최적화하고 잠재적인 위험 을 줄이기 위해 운동 유형, 개별 대사 특성 및 적응 기간에 따 라 합리적으로 조정해야 함을 강조한다. 향후 연구에서는 과학 적인 스포츠 영양지침을 제공하기 위해 케톤 식이요법의 장기 적인 영향과 다른 영양 전략의 조합을 추가로 조사해야 한다.
본 연구는 2020년부터 2024년 하반기까지 낙상예방을 위한 노인 운동프로그램과 관련하여 국 내 KCI등재지에서 발행된 선행 문헌 16편을 대상으로 특성, 운동프로그램 기간, 프로그램 구성, 운동효과 에 대해 분석하였고 결과는 다음과 같다. 첫째, 성별에서는 여성 노인을 대상으로 한 연구가 대부분이었다. 평균연령은 70세 이상이 가장 많았고, 피험자 수는 16명에서 30명 이하가 가장 많았으며, 건강 상태는 대 부분 건강한 노인들을 대상으로 한 논문들이었고, 실험집단과 통제집단으로 구성된 연구가 대부분으로 나 타났다. 둘째, 운동 프로그램 적용 기간은 12주를 적용한 연구가 가장 많았고, 주당 운동 횟수는 2회와 3회 가 가장 많았다. 그리고 1회 운동 시간은 60분 미만과 60분을 적용한 운동프로그램이 대부분이었다. 셋째, 운동 프로그램 구성요소는 무산소 운동프로그램과 복합 운동프로그램으로 구성한 논문들이 대부분이었다. 넷째, 체력 요인과 심리적 요인 등에서 운동 적용 효과가 있음을 확인하였다.
이 연구는 비만 유병율이 급격하게 증가되는 중년남성을 대상으로 비만 정도에 따른 신 체 활동량 차이를 알아보고, 비만도에 따른 대사적 건강 상태를 비교하여 비만 정도에 따 른 운동 실천율과의 연관성을 알아보고자 진행되었다. 연구에 활용된 자료는 2022년 국민 건강영양조사에 보고된 설문 원시자료이며, 연구 대상자는 중년남성(40세~64세)에 해당하 는 470명으로 선정하였다. 비만도에 따른 신체적 요인, 신체 활동량, 운동 실천율, 혈액요인 의 변인을 변인의 특성과 연구의 목적에 적합하도록 일원분산분석과 ²검정으로 분석하여 결과를 도출하였다. 비만도에 따른 체중, 허리둘레, 체질량지수, 나이 요인에서 유의한 차이 가 나타났고, 중성지방, 당화혈색소, 고밀도지단백 요인에서도 유의한 차이가 나타났다. 반 면 비만도에 따른 모든 집단에서 신체 활동량과 운동 실천율은 유의한 차이가 나타나지 않 았다. 결론적으로 중년남성의 비만도에 따른 신체 활동량 및 운동 실천율과의 연관성은 나 타나지 않았다. 이러한 결과로 국내 중년 남성에게 있어서 비만도는 일상의 영양 섭취, 수면, 스트레스 등과 같은 생활 습관의 변인 및 정신적인(심리적인) 변인의 중요성이 더 강조 될 수 있을 것으로 사료된다.
Background: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is very common disease. Strength exercise, balance exercise, and proprioceptive exercise were used to improvement of function for CAI. Isokinetic strength and balance are related to functional movement of lower extremity. Objectives: The purpose was to analyze the effect of muscle strengthening exercise, balance exercise, and proprioceptive exercise on isokinetic strength and balance in young adults with CAI. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: The subjects were 30 young adults with CAI. The subjects randomly divided into three groups: strengthening exercise, balance exercise, and proprioceptive exercise. They performed each exercise for 20 minutes, three times a week for four weeks. They measured isokinetic strength of dorsiflexor and plantar flexor of 60°/sec and 120°/sec, static and dynamic balance before and after exercise. Results: The isokinetic strengths of dorsiflexor and plantar flexor of 60°/sec and 120°/sec were significantly higher in the strengthening exercise group than in the balance exercise group. The static and dynamic balance was significantly higher in the balance exercise group than in other two groups. Conclusion: Strengthening exercise, balance exercise, proprioceptive exercise can improve the muscle strength for CAI. Strengthening exercise and balance exercise can more improve balance than proprioceptive exercise for CAI.
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) research on physical fitness posture estimation has been limited by a lack of comprehensive datasets and guidelines. This study analyzes the fitness image dataset provided by Korea's AIHub platform to advance posture estimation algorithms from exercise prescription and behavioral analysis perspectives. Objectives: To analyze fitness movements and guide correct exercise posture using AI-based visual and auditory feedback. Design: Descriptive analysis of a large-scale dataset. Methods: The study examined image and JSON labeling files from AI-Hub, analyzing 6.39 million fitness images across 41 exercise types. Data structure, exercise states, and annotation characteristics were analyzed in detail. Results: The dataset encompasses 816 distinct exercise states, captured from five camera angles with 24 key body points labeled per posture. Exercises were categorized into full-body workouts (17), barbell/dumbbell exercises (16), and furniture exercises (8). Gender distribution was 76% male and 24% female, with 41% in the 27-29 age group. The dataset allows for detailed analysis of correct and incorrect postures. Conclusion: This comprehensive analysis of the AI-Hub fitness dataset provides a robust foundation for developing AI models for fitness posture evaluation and feedback, benefiting exercise coach web/app service developers.
Background: This study aims to analyze the trends in research related to the application of whole-body vibration exercise in stroke patients, the methods used, and the effects of such applications. Additionally, it seeks to propose future directions for research on whole-body vibration exercise in stroke patients and provide foundational data for future studies. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to analyze the trends in research on the application of whole-body vibration exercise in stroke patients, focusing on the methods used and the resulting effects. Design: A scoping review. Methods: This is a literature review aimed at identifying trends in whole-body vibration exercise research for stroke patients published in Korea between 2000 and March 2024. The study followed the five stages of the scoping review procedure proposed by Arksey and O’Malley. Results: The remaining one was a comparative study of the effects between vibration frequencies. The main findings from the literature showed statistical significance in 15 studies, excluding 3 articles. Additionally, 13 studies reported that the whole-body vibration exercise group demonstrated more significant improvements than the control group, while 1 study found the control group had more significant effects than the whole-body vibration exercise group. The remaining study compared the effects between different vibration frequencies. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, there is a need for more systematic reviews and meta-analyses to evaluate the effectiveness and quality of interventions. These should focus on systematically analyzing the outcomes of vibration exercise programs applied to stroke patients and the relevant dependent variables.
Background: In patients with low back pain (LBP), weakened core muscles and impaired proprioception contribute to decreased spinal stability and LBP recurrence. Objectives: To investigate the effects of abdominal bracing exercises (BE) and kinetic link training (BEKLT) on pain, balance, and proprioception in LBP patients. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: Sixteen adults with LBP were randomly assigned to a BE group or a BEKLT group. Both groups completed a four-week intervention (three sessions per week). Pain was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), proprioception with the lumbar reposition sense test, and balance with the BT4 system. Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in VAS and proprioception error (P<.05), with no inter-group differences. In dynamic balance (limits of stability), the BE group improved in rearward, left, and right angles, while the BEKLT group improved in forward, rearward, and left angles (P<.05). A significant difference was observed in the forward leaning angle between groups (P<.05). For static balance, both groups showed significant reductions in trace length and C90 area (P<.05), with no inter-group differences. Conclusion: The findings suggest that both BE and BEKLT are effective interventions for reducing pain and improving proprioception and balance in LBP, with BEKLT providing additional benefits for dynamic balance.
Background: Limited ankle dorsiflexion (DF) range of motion (ROM) is associated with mechanical dysfunctions and chronic ankle instability. Uphill treadmill walking exercise (UTWE) has the potential to improve ankle mobility and function. Objects: This study aimed to examine the immediate effects of a 15° UTWE on DF ROM and torque generation in patients with limited DF. Methods: The study included 20 adults, comprising 10 males and 10 females, with a mean age 28 years and a passive DF range of 5°–12°. After baseline assessments, participants completed 30 minutes of UTWE on a 15° incline treadmill, followed by post-assessments. DF ROM was evaluated during the stance phase of gait, and in both open-kinematic-chain (OKC) and closed-kinematic-chain (CKC) conditions using a goniometer and Image J software. DF and plantar flexion (PF) peak torque were measured with a Biodex Dynamometer. Results: Post intervention, maximum DF ROM during the stance phase of gait increased significantly from a mean of 8.54° ± 3.97° to 11.03° ± 4.41°. The DF ROM in the OKC and CKC conditions increased significantly from a mean of 8.90° ± 0.62° and 21.55° ± 0.72° to 18.00° ± 1.13° and 28.20° ± 1.00°, respectively (p < 0.0001). DF peak torque increased from 16.20 ± 1.28 N/m to 21.52 ± 1.39 N/m, and PF peak torque increased from 25.26 ± 2.51 N/m to 44.22 ± 4.20 N/m (p < 0.0002). Conclusion: UTWE significantly enhanced DF ROM and ankle torque, indicating that it may be an effective intervention for improving ankle function and preventing injury in clinical and rehabilitation settings.
본 연구는 관상동맥 질환자의 심장 재활 운동환경으로서 도심 인근 산림의 이용과 효용성을 알 아보기 위해 심혈관 중재 시술(PCI)을 받은 관상동맥질환자 17명(남성 13명, 여성 4명)을 대상으로 서울 서대문구 소재 안산에서 12주간 산림 트래킹(약 6.5km)을 평균 3km/h 속도의 걷기 형태로 실시하였고, 사전 지형 분석을 통해 에너지 대사 당량을 추정하였다. 본 연구에서 산림 트래킹을 통한 신체 구성, 혈당, 혈압, 총콜레스테롤 및 유산소 능력 등의 변화에 대한 효과를 검증하기 위해 MedCalc(version 23)를 활용 한 대응표본 t검정(paired t-test)를 실시하였고(p<.05), 정규분포검증을 위해 D’Agostino-Pearson test를 적용하였다. 본 연구의 피검자는 평균 시속 2km에서 3km의 속도 범위(3.65METs – 4.85METs)에서 약 6.5km의 코스를 트래킹을 하는 동안 평균 여유심박수 56.8±11%의 운동 강도를 유지하였고, 12주 동안 트래킹 중 심각한 증상이나 징후는 없었다. 특히 프로그램 후 심혈관 위험인자 중 신체구성, 혈당, 혈압, 총 콜레스테롤과 유산소 지구력이 유의하게 개선된 것으로 미루어 보아 산림기반 심장 재활의 효용성을 입증 함으로 인해 원내 심장 재활의 제한점을 다소 해소할 수 있는 방안점을 고안하였으며, 이러한 실제적 적용 을 통해 현대인의 건강한 삶을 영위하기 위한 구체적인 프로그램을 추가적으로 개발할 필요가 있을 것이라 사료된다.
This study investigates how adding cognitive stimulation to exercise impacts overall outcomes. Cognitive stimulation involves engaging mental processes like attention, memory, and problem-solving while being physically active. The intervention integrates activities that challenge mental functions into exercise routines. Existing research suggests that such interventions can improve various aspects of exercise performance, such as adherence, enjoyment, and perceived effort. Additionally, they may also lead to enhanced cognitive function and mental well-being, hinting at potential combined benefits of mental and physical activity. Understanding the effects of cognitive stimulation on exercise can help in developing more effective strategies for promoting both physical and cognitive health. In summary, physical exercise emerges as a powerful tool for enhancing cognitive stimulation and mental well-being. By making regular physical activity a habit, individuals can reap cognitive benefits alongside physical ones, underlining the importance of including exercise in daily routines for optimal cognitive function and overall health.
본 연구에서는 경도인지장애 여성노인의 베타 아밀로이드 및 인지기능을 위해 12주간 수중운동 을 적용한 후 베타 아밀로이드에 미치는 영향을 알아보고, 인지기능의 변화를 규명함으로써 경도인지장애 여성노인을 위한 효율적인 운동 유형과 방법을 알아보고 도움을 주고자 하는데 연구의 목적이 있다. 이에 경도인지장애 진단을 받은 여성노인을 대상으로 운동집단 8명, 통제집단 8명을 단순무선표집으로 선정하 였다. 수중운동 프로그램은 주 3회씩 총 12주간 실시하였으며, 운동강도는 RPE 11-14으로 실시하였다. 운 동 프로그램의 효과를 검증하기 위해, 사전-사후 반복 측정 자료에 대하여 반복측정 분산분석을 실시하였 으며, 집단 간 상호작용 효과가 유의한 경우 대응표본 t-검정을 추가로 수행하였다. 모든 통계 분석은 유의 수준은 a=.05로 설정하였다. 그 결과 첫째, 베타 아밀로이드에서 운동그룹의 경우 운동 전에 비해 감소하 였으나 통제집단은 증가하였다. 둘째, 인지기능의 결과 운동집단의 경우 운동 전에 비해 증가하였으나 통 제집단은 감소하였다. 결론적으로 수중운동은 경도인지장애 여성노인에게 있어서 베타 아밀로이드를 감소 시킬 수 있는 프로그램으로 적용될 수 있으며, 인지기능을 증가 시키는데 도움을 줄 수 있는 것으로 확인되 었다.
본 연구의 목적은 맨몸 스쿼트 시 3가지 운동 속도를 이용하여 하지의 균형 평가를 위하여 COP 변인들과 하지 근전도에 미치는 영향을 밝히는 것이다. 연구의 대상자로 19세 이상의 성인 15명(연 령: 22.17±1.9세, 신장: 177.7±6.4 cm, 체중: 75.3±10.4 kg)이 연구에 참여하였다. 3가지 스쿼트 운동 속도(빠른속도, 보통속도, 느린속도)를 위하여 메트로놈을 이용하였고, 각 속도에 따라 하지의 균형 측정을 위하여 압력중심, 하지의 근활성도 측정을 위하여 근전도를 이용하여 자료를 수집하였다. 이에 따른 결론 은 다음과 같다. 맨몸 스쿼트 시 하지의 균형은 운동 속도가 느릴수록 안정적으로 나타났지만, 근활성도 측 면에서는 운동 속도가 빠를수록 대체적으로 증가하는 것으로 보였다. 이러한 결과를 통하여 숙련자일수록 빠른 속도, 초보자일수록 느린 속도의 스쿼트가 권장된다.
Background: Core muscles provide important dynamic stabilization of the lumbar spine. The twist sit-up can simultaneously stimulate the external oblique (EO), internal oblique (IO), and transverse abdominis (TrA) muscles. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of knee angles during twist sit-up exercises and determine the most efficient knee angle for performing this exercise. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: The study recruited 30 students from S University regardless of gender. The subjects performed a total of 10 twist sit-ups at five different knee angles (0, 40, 65, 90, and 105 degrees), divided between the ipsilateral and contralateral sides. The thickness of abdominal muscles (EO, IO, and TrA), was measured using ultrasonography on rest position and full contraction position for each angle of knee flexion and compared between angles. Results: There were significant differences in the ipsilateral EO, IO, and TrA muscle thickness at different knee flexion angles (P<0.5). There was a significant difference in the thickness of EO between 0 and 105 degrees and between 40 and 105 degrees (P<0.5), a significant difference in the thickness of IO between 0 and 105 degrees (P<0.5), and a significant difference in the thickness of TrA between 0 and 105 degrees, 40 and 90 degrees, and 65 and 90 degrees (P<0.5). Conclusion: In conclusion, the muscles involved in axial rotation i.e., EO and IO, maximally contract at a knee flexion angle of 105 degrees. Therefore, this may be the most optimal angle to perform twist sit-ups.