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Completed

NCT Number: NCT06966648

Pilot Study on Core Stabilization Training on Stable vs Unstable Surfaces in Young Rhythmic Gymnasts

This pilot randomized controlled trial will investigate the effects of a 7-week core stabilization program performed on stable versus unstable surfaces in young competitive rhythmic gymnasts. Sixteen athletes will be randomized into two groups and will be assessed for changes in static balance and pivot performance.

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Key information

Conditions

Postural Balance Athletic Performance Motor Skills Physical Fitness

Age range

7 year–12 year

Sex eligibility

Female

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

International Hellenic University

Thessaloniki, Greece, 57400

About this study

Rhythmic gymnastics requires high-level neuromuscular control, especially for skills involving balance and rotation. Core stabilization exercises are commonly included in training, but limited evidence exists regarding the impact of surface type on training effectiveness. This pilot study will compare the effects of a 7-week core stabilization program conducted on stable versus unstable surfaces on balance and pivot execution in rhythmic gymnasts aged 7-12. Participants will be randomly allocated into two equal groups and will be assessed pre- and post-intervention on selected balance and pivot tasks in accordance with Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) standards. The study aims to inform future trials by estimating effect sizes and assessing the feasibility of the protocol.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Female rhythmic gymnasts aged 7 to 12 years
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience in rhythmic gymnastics
  • Active participation in organized training at least 3 times per week
  • No current musculoskeletal pain or injury
  • Ability to perform all training and assessment tasks safely
  • Written informed consent provided by a parent or legal guardian

Exclusion criteria

  • History of acute lower limb or spinal injury within the past 6 months
  • Presence of neurological, orthopedic, or vestibular disorders affecting balance
  • Concurrent participation in other structured physical training programs outside rhythmic gymnastics
  • Any medical condition that would contraindicate participation in physical exercise

Treatment and study plan

Core stabilization on stable surfaces

Other

Participants will perform a structured core stabilization training program on stable surfaces, such as the floor and rigid foam blocks. The program includes functional exercises targeting trunk control, postural alignment, and balance, delivered three times per week over a 7-week period.

Core stabilization on unstable surfaces

Other

Participants will perform the same structured core stabilization training program as the stable surface group, but on unstable surfaces such as BOSU balls and wobble boards. The intervention is designed to challenge balance, proprioception, and core muscle activation. Sessions are conducted three times per week over a 7-week period.

Primary outcomes

  1. Balance Duration

    Time frame: Baseline and Week 7 (post-intervention)

    Balance performance will be measured in seconds using a handheld stopwatch (Ultrak 250 Stopwatch Chronometer). Each gymnast will perform three static balance elements (passé, attitude, and side split with help) in relevé position while wearing half shoes. The timer will start once the gymnast achieves final posture and stop when balance is lost, form deteriorates, or the center of gravity shifts. Five trials will be performed for each element, and the longest successful attempt will be recorded. All tests will be performed with eyes open.

  2. Pivot Performance (Number of Clean Rotations)

    Time frame: Baseline and Week 7 (post-intervention)

    Pivot performance will be assessed as the number of clean, full rotations executed without technical faults, based on Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) regulations. Each gymnast will perform two pivot elements (passé forward and attitude) in relevé position while wearing half shoes, maintaining proper form and control. Five attempts will be performed for each pivot type, and the highest number of clean rotations will be recorded. All tests will be performed with eyes open.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

International Hellenic University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Effect of Core Stabilization Training on Balance and Pivot Performance in Young Rhythmic Gymnasts: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2025
First posted
May 13, 2025
Registry last updated
Jul 17, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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