Chapter 17 - Balance Training Concepts

Question 1

Center of gravity

Answer 1

The approximate midpoint of the body; while the location may vary between individuals, it is typically located at the midportion of the trunk.

Question 2

Base of support

Answer 2

The area beneath a person that consists of every point of contact made between the body and the support surface.

Question 3

Limits of stability

Answer 3

The area within which an individual can move one’s center of gravity without changing the base of support (i.e., moving the feet) without falling.

Question 4

Static balance

Answer 4

The ability to maintain the center of mass within the base of support in a stationary position, meaning no linear or angular movement.

Question 5

Semi-dynamic balance

Answer 5

The ability to maintain the center of mass with a stationary base of support yet allowing movement for the base supporting the body.

Question 6

Dynamic balance

Answer 6

The ability to maintain a center of mass over an ever-changing base of support.

Question 7

Vestibular system

Answer 7

Provides information about the position of the body and head, and spatial orientation relative to its surrounding environment; located in the inner ears that assist with balance.

Question 8

Somatosensory system

Answer 8

Provides information that is acquired from receptors in the body (skin, muscle, joints, tendons) about the position and motion of the body parts relative to other body regions and the support surface.

Question 9

Sensorimotor function

Answer 9

The interaction between the way the body processes visual, vestibular, and somatosensory information with the motor response of the body to that information.

Question 10

Neuromuscular control

Answer 10

The response (conscious or unconscious) of the muscles within the body to control purposeful movement.

Question 11

Anterior cruciate ligament

Answer 11

A key ligament within the knee joint that provides stability to limit excessive motion of the tibia relative to the femur.

Question 12

Systematic review

Answer 12

A type of research article that synthesizes and summarizes findings from multiple existing research articles on a specific topic.

Question 13

Peturbation

Answer 13

An alteration of the body’s current state caused by the application of an external force.

Question 14

Proprioceptively enriched environment

Answer 14

An unstable (yet controllable) exercise environment that causes the body to use its internal balance and stabilization mechanisms.