Postural Stability in Female Rhythmic and Artistic Gymnastics Athletes: the Role of Visual and Somatosensory Signals

The study was devoted to the assessment of postural stability in female athletes involved in rhythmic (n = 17), artistic (n = 20) gymnastics and non-athletes (n = 19). The main objective was to identify the features of the center of pressure (CoP) oscillations in female and non-athletes under various conditions of activation of visual and somatosensory inputs. The method of computer stabilometry was used on the automated complex “Stabilan-01-5”. To assess postural stability, the parameters of the stabilographic test were analyzed: linear velocity of CoP movement (ALV, mm/s), angular velocity of CoP movement (AAV, deg/s) and ellipse area (ELLS, sq. mm), the Romberg coefficient was calculated. Spectral analysis of stabilographic signals was conducted. The participants performed tests in a normal stance on a hard and soft surface with their eyes closed and open. The results showed that CoP oscillations in female and non-gymnasts in a calm stance were comparable, but differences were observed on a soft surface. Rhythmic and artistic gymnasts demonstrated better postural stability indicators, which is explained by their ability to integrate proprioceptive and visual signals. Spectral analysis showed smaller fluctuations in the high-frequency range in both rhythmic and artistic gymnasts, which indicates the formation of specific motor and neuromuscular strategies in them. It was also found that rhythmic gymnasts were more dependent on visual control to maintain postural stability, which is probably due to the need to accurately assess the distance and body position when performing elements specific to this sport. The results obtained can serve as a basis for developing individual training programs taking into account sensory integration and movement control in different groups of athletes.