Effects of the Repetitive Cross-over Step Training for Postural Stability during One Leg Standing

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to clarify the short-term effects of a repetitive cross-over step training for postural stability and postural strategies during one-leg standing. [Subjects and Methods] Fourteen healthy young adults participated in this study. In the test sessions before and after training, subjects maintained one-leg standing for up to 15 sec. In the training session, each subject repeatedly practiced the cross-over step in 100 trials. The distance from the center of pressure (COP) to the body's center of mass (COM) (COP-COM distance), and the body weight distribution and COP change mechanisms were evaluated to determine the effects of the practice. [Results] The results showed that the COP-COM distance during one-leg standing had shortened, together with increase of the body weight distribution mechanism in the acceleration phase and of COP-change mechanism in the deceleration phase after the practice. [Conclusion] Repetitive cross-over stepping changes postural strategies, improving postural stability during one-leg standing by reducing the COP-COM distance.