Short-Term Core Stabilization Training Boosts Core Endurance and Dynamic Balance in Female Adolescent Taekwondo and Karate Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Core stability, defined as the ability to control trunk position and motion, is essential for improving physical performance and reducing injury risk in athletic training and rehabilitation. However, evidence on the effects of structured core stabilization training on core endurance and dynamic balance among adolescent martial arts athletes remains limited. Objective: To determine the effects of a core stabilization training program on core endurance and dynamic balance in young female Taekwondo and Karate athletes. Methodology: A convenience sample of 30 healthy female martial arts athletes (mean age 17.47±1.01 years) from a martial arts academy was recruited. Participants were screened to exclude orthopedic and balance disorders, and written informed consent was obtained. The study employed a randomized controlled pre–post design. Subjects were randomly assigned to an exercise or control group using a chit-draw method. The control group maintained regular martial arts training, while the exercise group also completed a supervised 3-week core stabilization program. Core endurance was measured using the Abdominal Fatigue Test, Back Extension Test, and right and left Side Bridge Tests. Dynamic balance was assessed with the Star Excursion Balance Test. Post-intervention differences were analyzed via independent t-tests, with significance set at p

This study evaluates the impact of core stabilization training on athletic performance.