Investigation of the Effects of Core Stabilization and Mobility Exercises on Lower Extremity Strength, Agility and Balance in Female Volleyball Players

This study investigated the effects of an eight-week core stabilization and mobility exercise program on lower-extremitystrength, agility, and balance in female volleyball players. Thirteen female volleyball players completed the program three times per week for eight weeks. Lower extremity strength, agility, and balance were assessed before and after the intervention. Knee extensor and flexor peak torque were measured using a Cybex isokinetic dynamometer at angular velocities of 60°/s, 120°/s, and 180°/s. Agility was assessed using the Illinois agility test, and static and dynamic balance were evaluated with an isokinetic balance device. Knee extensor strength increased significantly at 60°/s, 120°/s, and 180°/s (p 0.05), while knee flexor strength increased significantly at 60°/s and 120°/s (p 0.05). However, no significant change was observed in knee flexor strength at 180°/s (p 0.05). Agility performance also improved significantly after the program (p 0.05). Significant pre- to post-intervention differences were also observed in the stability index (SI), double-leg eyes-open perimeter, eyes-open ellipse area (EO-EA), mean center-of-pressure displacement in the y-direction (ACOPY) for both right and left single-leg stance, as well as the ellipse area for right-leg stance (p 0.05). No significant differences were found in eyes-open single-leg mean center of pressure in the x-direction (ACOPX) or in any balance parameters assessed under eyes-closed conditions (p 0.05). Overall, an eight-week core stabilization and mobility exercise program improved lower extremity strength, agility, and balance performance in female volleyball players. Balance improvements were primarily observed under eyes-open conditions; therefore, these exercises may be incorporated into volleyball training programs to enhance athletic performance.