An integrative approach to the assessment of the coordination abilities in equestrian athletes at the initial stage of training

Aim. The article deals with developing coordination abilities in equestrian athletes at the initial stage of training through a specially organized training process. Materials and methods. The study was conducted on the premises of the Grand Prix sports and recreation complex (Samara region, Podstepki village, Togliatti). 36 equestrian athletes aged from 16 to 17 years were examined. The main (MG) and the comparison group (CG) consisted of 18 males and females. The comparison group was engaged in a standard program (4 days per week, 1 hour). The main group had 4 training sessions per week. On the fourth day, the main group practiced specially selected exercises aimed at developing coordination abilities. The diagnostic method included the Human temporal and spatial properties analyzer 2.1 software, as well as the BALANCE SYSTEM SD training platform. Results. According to the results of the study, significant changes in the spatial and temporal properties were observed among triathletes and competitors in both males and females. The significance of differences of unilateral and bilateral postural stability confirms the importance of the ability to static and dynamic balance, as well as coordination and combination of movements for equestrian athletes involved in show jumping, dressage and eventing. Conclusion. Special exercises on the force platform allow improving coordination abilities, temporal and spatial properties and postural stability in show jumping, dressage and eventing.