Effects of Flexi-Bar Training in Different Postures on Core Muscle Activation, Trunk Muscle Strength, and Balance in Sedentary Adults

Trunk stability is a fundamental basis for achieving proximal stability and facilitating distal mobility, and is closely associated with balance control and neuromuscular coordination. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Flexi-Bar training performed in different postures on core muscle activation, trunk muscle strength, and balance in sedentary adults. The findings are expected to provide a preliminary foundation for future application in populations with impaired trunk control and poor balance, such as individuals with stroke. This study will recruite 60 sedentary university students who were randomly assigned to an experimental group (sitting position) or a control group (standing position). The intervention consisted of standardized Flexi-Bar training twice a week, 35 minutes per session, for four weeks. Outcome measures included trunk muscle strength assessed using a handheld dynamometer (MicroFET3), core muscle activation assessed using surface electromyography (sEMG), and static and dynamic balance assessed using the TYMO balance platform and the Y-Balance Test, respectively.