Star excursion balance test: assessing coordination abilities in cross-country skiers

Aim. The aim of the study was to theoretically substantiate the methodology for performing the star excursion balance test to assess the coordination abilities of cross-country skiers. Materials and methods. The study involved 186 cross-country skiers aged 11 to 16 years. Results. The methodology for performing the star excursion balance test was structured, and a quantitative coordination index was proposed. Conclusion. The star excursion balance test reflects the specific technical demands of crosscountry skiing. Differentiated assessment scales are provided to evaluate levels of coordination preparedness. The test is characterized by its specificity, accessibility, and simplicity of both the motor actions and the required equipment. It is minimally influenced by athlete age-related changes, such as body weight, and can be performed with both the dominant and non-dominant limbs.