Impact of Redcord Slings with Core Training on Jump Performance and Core Muscle Activity in Sedentary College Students

The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of Redcord sling training in improving core muscle activity and jump performance in college students with sedentary lifestyle-induced muscle functional deficits. The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of Redcord sling training in improving core muscle activity and jump performance in college students with sedentary lifestyle-induced muscle functional deficits. 

Fifteen college students (6 males, mean age, 21.3±2.31years; 9 females, mean age, 20.56±0.68 years), were recruited for this study. These participants self-reported a sedentary lifestyle, characterized by prolonged periods of sitting or lying down with minimal physical activity. The participants underwent a 10-session Redcord sling training program over four weeks. Each core training session consisted of nine exercises performed in three sets, totaling approximately 25 minutes. Jump performance, including drop jump, countermovement jump, and squat jump, was assessed, along with electromyographic recordings of core muscles during the dead bug and quadruped limb exercises, both pre- and post-Redcord sling training program.

The study demonstrated a significant improvement in jump height of squat jump among female participants (p 0.05). In contrast, male jump performance remained unchanged (p > 0.05). Electromyographic analysis revealed a shift in core muscle activation patterns. Participants primarily engaged ipsilateral core muscles during the dead bug exercise in the pretest, whereas the posttest demonstrated a greater tendency towards bilateral core muscle activation. Notably, approximately 60% of participants exhibited consistent ipsilateral core muscle activation during the quadruped limb exercise, with no significant changes observed between the pre- and post-intervention assessments. 

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of core muscle training using the Redcord system in increasing jump height among sedentary female college students. Furthermore, electromyographic analysis suggests that Redcord training modifies core muscle activation patterns during limb movements, potentially leading to improved balance and bilateral development of core muscle strength.

The findings suggest the positive outcomes of incorporating Redcord suspension system training into core muscle exercise programs for enhancing jump performance and neuromuscular control of core muscles in sedentary individuals.