Effectiveness of a posture maintenance and correction method using extra classes for female medical university students in the "Healthy back" group

Introduction . Postural disorders are common among university students and require effective prevention and correction methods. Objective . To evaluate posture, physical development, and physical fitness in female students of Yaroslavl State Medical University (YSMU) attending the “Healthy Back” group at different stages of the academic year. Methods . The study was conducted during the 2025 / 2026 academic year at the Department of Physical Education and Sports, YSMU. A total of 28 female students from years 1-6 (mean age 20.7±1.9 years) who attended extra “Healthy Back” classes once a week were examined. Morphofunctional measurements (height, body weight, chest circumference, vital capacity, Stange test, handgrip and back strength), posture assessment by shoulder index, static-dynamic strength endurance tests (“plank,” “boat,” “angle,” squats, seated forward bend), and a questionnaire were used. Dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) was applied. Measurements were performed in two stages: November 2025 and May 2026. Results . At baseline, postural abnormalities were detected: the mean shoulder index was 115.7±7.6 % (norm 100-110 %). Physical development indicators were within the age norm, but physical fitness varied from “unsatisfactory” to “excellent.” By the end of the study, the shoulder index decreased to 107.7±9.2 % (p<0.003) and returned to normal. Vital capacity increased by 7 % (p<0.008), Stange test by 30 % (p<0.003), and back strength by 15 % (p<0.004). Test results improved for squats (by 24 %), “boat” (by 50 %), “plank” (by 52 %), and “angle” (by 108 %); flexibility increased by an average of 9.7 cm (p<0.001). All physical fitness indicators were rated as “excellent” or “good.” Conclusion . The findings demonstrate the high effectiveness of the DNS method for posture correction and maintenance and for improving physical development and physical fitness in female students. The exercises positively affect the shoulder index, respiratory function, strength endurance, and flexibility.