EFFECTIVENESS OF SWISS BALL EXERCISE VERSUS FLOOR EXERCISE ON CORE MUSCLE ENDURANCE IN ATHLETES

Introduction: Core muscles serve as a critical bridge for force transfer between the upper and lower limbs, playing a vital role in body stabilization and force generation during sports activities. The core is visualized as a box comprising the abdominal muscles (front), para-spinals and gluteus muscles (back), diaphragm (roof), and pelvic floor and hip girdle musculature (bottom). Within this structure, the inner unit (transverse abdominals, multifidus, pelvic floor and hip musculature) provides internal stability, while the outer unit (rectus abdominals, external and internal obliques) facilitates movement and external stability. Effective core performance requires coordination of these muscles to maintain posture, balance and functional movement. Methodology: This true experimental, comparative study employed random sampling via the lottery method, involving 30 male athletes aged 17-24. Conducted over four weeks at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the study utilized the McGill Torso Muscular Endurance Test Battery (trunk flexor, lateral flexors (right and left), and extensor endurance tests) to measure core muscle endurance. Tools used included a Swiss ball, mat, high couch, board or step, stopwatch, and rope. Participants were divided into three groups: Group A (Floor Exercise), Group B (Swiss Ball Exercise), and Group C (Control Group). Procedure: Pre-assessments were conducted using the McGill Torso Endurance Test Battery. Over four weeks, Group A performed floor exercises, Group B performed Swiss ball exercises, and Group C received no specific exercise intervention. Post-assessments followed, comparing pre- and post-test results to determine the effectiveness of each exercise regimen on core muscle endurance. Discussion and Results: All groups showed significant improvement (p < 0.05) in core muscle endurance. Inter-group analysis revealed that Group B (Swiss Ball Exercise) had more significant improvements in all measures (flexor, extensor, right and left lateral flexion) compared to Group A (Floor Exercise) and Group C (Control Group). The unstable surface of the Swiss ball increased muscle recruitment and spinal stabilization, providing a dynamic training environment that enhanced core muscle performance. Conclusion: Intra-group analysis indicated that all three groups improved core muscle endurance. However, inter-group analysis demonstrated that Swiss Ball exercises were more effective than floor exercises and no intervention in enhancing core muscle endurance. KEYWODS: Core Muscle Endurance, Swiss Ball Exercises, Floor Exercises, Athletes