The effect of proprioception training on lower extremity response time in kung fu athletes: Responses between dominant and non-dominant feet

Abstract

Background and Study Aim Proprioceptive training influences neuromuscular control and reaction time in athletes. Its impact on response time in different limbs remains an area of interest. This highlights the need for further research to identify effective training approaches. The present study examined the immediate effects of proprioceptive training on response times in the dominant and non-dominant feet of kung fu athletes. Material and Methods The sample included 21 female volunteer kung fu athletes (age: 14.43 +/- 1.21 years; height: 157.90 +/- 4.59 cm; weight: 53.10 +/- 8.26 kg; sports experience: 8.24 +/- 2.41 years). Response times were measured before and after proprioceptive training using the Light Trainer Pro device. One-way repeated measures ANOVA assessed the effects of proprioceptive training. A paired t-test compared pretest-posttest response time differences between the dominant and non-dominant feet. Results A significant effect of proprioceptive training on response times was found (p < 0.05). In the pretest, no significant difference was observed between the dominant and non-dominant feet (p > 0.05). However, in the post-test, the response time of the dominant foot was significantly lower than that of the non-dominant foot (p < 0.05). The dominant foot's response time significantly decreased after proprioceptive training (p < 0.05), while no change was observed for the non-dominant foot (p > 0.05). No significant difference was found in the pretest-posttest response time changes between the dominant and non-dominant feet (p > 0.05). Conclusions Acute proprioceptive training improved the response time of the dominant foot in kung fu athletes. Proprioceptive training programs may enhance athletes' performance before training and competition.