J Korean Phys Ther.  2022 Apr;34(2):51-56. 10.18857/jkpt.2022.34.2.51.

Effects of Gym Ball Stabilization Exercises on the Physical Functions of Elementary School Baseball Players

• Kim SH
• Park JC

• KMID: 2536752
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.18857/jkpt.2022.34.2.51

Abstract

Purpose
This study examined the effects of gym ball stabilization exercises on the physical functions of elementary school baseball players.
Methods
The elementary school baseball players were assigned to an experimental group (n = 21). The group performed gym ball stabilization exercises and the changes in the physical functions were measured using the visual response speed test, functional movements, physical balance ability, and pulmonary function.
Results
The results of the visual response speed test showed changes in the time response speed. There was a significant change in the number of touches in 15 seconds in the upper arms and left and right legs (p < 0.05) after 10 weeks. Also, there was a significant change in the reaction times of the left and right legs after 10 weeks (p < 0.05). Further, there were significant differences in functional movements involving rotational stability and the total functional scores after 10 weeks (p < 0.05). The player’s body balance ability showed a significant difference after 10 weeks in the posterior-lateral and posterior-medial composite scores of the left and right legs (p < 0.05). There was a significant change in the forced lung capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 second after 10 weeks (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
These results show that the gym ball stabilization exercises effectively improved the visual response speed and functional movements, balance, and vital capacity of elementary school baseball players.

Keyword

Baseball player; Physical function; Gym ball