The effect of visual and kinesthetic feedback on the performance of a static balance task in rhythmic gymnastics

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of kinesthetic or visual plus kinesthetic feedback in the performance of a complex static balance in rhythmic gymnastics. Thirty-six female P.E. students between the ages of 19-21 years old (M = 20.7), performed a dynamic balance task requiring standing on the right leg while the left leg was extended in the lateral plane forming a 90degrees angle to the body ("balance a la second with passe developpe"). Participants were divided in two practice groups. The first group practiced the skill facing a white wall while the second group practiced the skill facing a mirror. Performance was evaluated by two independent observers under the same sensory conditions: a) just after the practice phase (post-test) and b) one week later (retention test) according to fifteen technical points defined by the Code of Points of the International Federation of Gymnastics. The duration of tip-tow stance, the total and partial technical performance scores were analyzed using a 2(group) x 2 (test) multivariate ANOVA model. When the performance was evaluated just after the practice session (post-test), it was noted than the group practicing the skill in front of the mirror had significantly higher partial and total technical performance scores and stayed longer in the tip-toe stance than the group who practiced the skill using only kinesthetic feedback. However, this superiority of performance by the group using kinesthetic plus visual feedback was not permanent, as this was confirmed by the absence of significant differences between the groups in the retention test one week later. It is concluded that kinesthetic feedback plays the same crucial role as visual plus kinesthetic feedback in complex and difficult sport skills that require high level of total body coordination.