Explore innovative stability training methods for athletes including high axial load exercises, fast movements, and neuromuscular control drills. Learn about the benefits of using wedges in training to target specific muscles and improve force production. Discover the advantages of unstable surface training with the MOBO board for foot positioning and motion correction. Dive into unique stability training strategies like Bosu balls and shoulder and hip strength exercises.
Stability training focuses on co-contractions and opposition in muscle groups to enhance force production and neuromuscular awareness.
Incorporating fast movements in stability training improves dynamic stability and foot pronation, beneficial for athletes with ankle sprains or imbalance.
Deep dives
Science of Stability Training
Stability training involves co-contractions around the joints and opposing muscle groups, unlike isolated movements like bicep curls that inhibit opposing muscle groups for forceful movements. More stability means limited force production due to reciprocal inhibition. For example, stable movements like leg extensions allow high force production, unlike unstable exercises that focus on co-contractions and cognitive perceptual elements.
Stability Exercises with High Axial Loads
Stability exercises with high axial loads, like heavy marching or step up exercises, benefit runners and older athletes for building hip musculature and core strength. Using barbells or dumbbells for these exercises can provide nervous system input and axial loading benefits without requiring high range of motion or heavy traditional squats.
Fast Movements as Stability Training
Fast movements, such as single leg forward hops or lateral hops, engage co-contractions and neuromuscular awareness similar to static stability exercises but at a faster pace. Incorporating fast movements in stability training can improve dynamic stability and foot pronation, especially beneficial for athletes with ankle sprains or muscular imbalance.