Assessment of Balance and Cognitive Function in Youth Gymnasts

Elizabeth J. Epps & Carina A. Staab

2012

International recruitment of female gymnast identifies children from the age of 4 years old. This study focuses on measuring components of gymnastics, using validated equipment to assess balance, reaction time, and working memory of level 4-5 gymnasts. 16 competitive female gymnasts (6-13 year-olds) were recruited. Single leg and Tandem Balance Test measured sway and stability while holding an iPod. Reaction time and memory was measured through a sequence of screens asking the subject to touch a point on the iPod as fast as possible and memorize a list of words, then tested recall of the word list. Results suggested no significance between trials 1, 2, and 3 on balance, reaction time and working memory.