2016, Volume 12
The influence of different performance level of fencers on muscular coordination and reaction time during the fencing lunge
Štefan Balkó1, Zbigniew Borysiuk2, Iva Balkó1, Daniel Špulák3
1Faculty of Education, University of J. E. Purkyně in Ústà nad Labem, Ústà nad Labem, Czech Republic
2Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Politechnika Opolska, Opole, Poland
3Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
Author for correspondence: Štefan Balkó; Faculty of Education, University of J. E. Purkyně in Ústà nad Labem, Ústà nad Labem, Czech Republic; email: Stefan.Balko[at]ujep.cz
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Abstract
Background and Study Aim: The work is based on the assumption that there are differences in variables (time activation of selected muscles, reaction time) between fencers of different performance levels. This assumption is based on results and claims of previous studies and scientific literature, in which the authors draw attention to the fact that there are differences in the effectiveness of applied movement and speed of processing information from the environment between experienced and less experienced athletes. The aim of this work is information about the activation of selected muscles during the fencing lunge in different performance levels of fencers.
Material and Methods: The research sample consisted of 43 fencers (épéeist) aged 22.7 ±6.4 years. Based on the current performance of the fencers were divided into appropriate groups To determine the activation of selected muscles, surface electromyography was used (ME6000). FitroSword system was used to identify the reaction time and total time needed to perform the lunge.
Results: Among the groups of fencers were no differences in the order of the selected muscle activation. The differences were reflected in monitoring the time activation of these muscles. For effective lunge can be considered a major priority of activation of m. deltoideus – pars anterior on the armed arm before m. rectus femoris on the front lower limb. Among the elite fencers and beginners was found a difference in reaction time during a lunge.
Conclusions: Due to the fact that there was no difference in overall lunge time between the groups of fencers, muscular coordination and reaction time level of lunge can be considered as important components of sports performance in fencing.
Key words: combat sports, defensive action, épée, muscle activation, offensive action, surface electromyography