Abstract:

This study aimed to occur the correlation between core and selected strength values of canoe slalom athletes in the race performance. This study was conducted on 26 (17,5±1,5 age) canoe slalom athletes at the Turkish Olympic Preparation Center (TOHM) in Rize and Artvin. Plank, side plank, core flexor endurance, and biering sorensen tests were used to determine athletes' core strength and back, leg, and handgrip strength. In addition, the pulmonary function tests (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and PEF), maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory pressure (MEP) muscle strength of the athletes were determined. Sprint performance tests were measured in flat water on a 200-meter track. T-test (p>0,05) was used in groups with normal distribution, and Mann Whitney U test (p<0,05) was used in groups that did not show normal distribution while analyzing the data obtained in the study. There was no relationship between canoe slalom athletes' averages of core strength and respiratory functions with their racing performance and 200-meter sprint results (p>0,05), but a negative correlation was found between right-left handgrip (r=-,557; r=-,467) and back strength (r=-,512) with racing performance. In light of current literature, that respiratory functions, strength, and core strength are essential criteria for increasing and maintaining the performance of athletes and are also crucial for canoe slalom athletes. According to study results, strength training and trunk muscle training, in general, are at an acceptable level as promising tools for new canoe slalom athletes to reveal the muscle strength that is required to move the boat.

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