Effect of Core Strength Training on Posture, Balance, and Cardiovascular Endurance

Abstract

Context: Core strength training has been recognized as an effective method for improving trunk stability, body alignment, movement efficiency, and physical fitness. Therefore, the present study was conducted to examine the effects of core strength training on posture, balance, and cardiovascular endurance among school girls.

Method: The study adopted a pre-test and post-test experimental design with one experimental group and one control group. Twenty school girls aged between 11 to 15 years were selected for the study and divided into an experimental group (n = 12) and a control group (n = 8). The experimental group participated in a structured core strength training program for four weeks, while the control group continued their regular physical activities without additional training. Posture was assessed through the Wall Test, balance was measured using the Stork Stand Test, and cardiovascular endurance was evaluated through the 600-meter run test. The collected data were analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) at the 0.05 level of significance.

Result: It was found that for posture, significant improvement was found after training (p < 0.05). For balance, significant improvement was observed after training (p < 0.05). For cardiovascular endurance, no significant improvement was found (p > 0.05). The findings indicate that core strength training had a positive effect on posture and balance, while its effect on cardiovascular endurance was not significant.

 Conclusion: It was concluded that core strength training is effective in improving posture and balance among school girls. The training program contributed to better body alignment, stability, and neuromuscular control. However, the duration of training was not sufficient to produce significant changes in cardiovascular endurance. Therefore, core strength exercises may be included in school physical education programs to enhance physical fitness and postural health among adolescent girls.