Abstract

In exploring the performance-enhancing effects of compression sportswear, this study investigates its impact on trunk muscle activation during core stability training, with a particular focus on the biomechanical implications of this relationship. This research posits the existence of an Equilibrium Point of Motion (EPM) and employs surface Electromyography (EMG) to measure muscular responses in the Erector Spinae (ES), External Oblique (EO), and Rectus Abdominis (RA) during exercises performed with and without compression wear. Results revealed that compression garments significantly augment root mean square (RMS) values for ES and EO muscles, suggesting differential muscle activation patterns. Further, the application of OpenSim modeling of full-body musculoskeletal mechanics facilitated a novel analysis of muscle forces and activations, enhancing the understanding of sportswear functionality in an ergonomic context. This approach uncovered significant correlations between actual and simulated muscle activations, particularly for the ES and EO during a gluteal bridge exercise. These insights contribute to the development of ergonomically-engineered sportswear aimed at optimizing athletic performance and provide a valuable reference for future sportswear design and research.