Participants are needed for a research study conducted by Hannah Bradshaw in the Biomechanics Laboratory at Ball State University under the supervision of Dr. Clark Dickin. This study has been approved by the BSU IRB (#2253520).
WHY: To investigate the influence and reflexive nature of the inner ear during jumping and balance tasks.
WHO: Recreational or competitive athletes in ANY sport between the ages of 18-35 years, who engages in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week, or at least 75 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic exercise per week.
- You must be free from orthopedic or neurological conditions (including concussion) that would limit your ability to jump maximally, balance, or hop and land on one leg.
- No previous ligament reconstruction on either leg, or current lower limb pain or injury that would prevent or limit testing.
WHAT: You will be asked to come to the laboratory for TWO VISITS separated by one week.
- You will be randomized into one of two groups, with each group performing different warm-ups.
- You will then be asked to complete FIVE tasks: countermovement jump, single-leg hop to land, static balance test with the eyes both open and closed, and two tests for vestibular system function using a gyroscope.
- Time commitment is approximately 90 minutes for each visit (total = ~3 hours).
- You are required to wear compressive clothing during testing (provided by Ball State University Biomechanics Laboratory) and to perform all assessments barefoot.
- You will be asked to complete a Health History and Physical Activity Questionnaire.
- Participants who complete the study will be awarded a $20 Tango gift card.
WHERE: Ball State University Biomechanics Laboratory (HP 309 & 311). Parking is available if you are coming from off-campus.
For more information, please contact Hannah Bradshaw (hannah.bradshaw@bsu.edu) or
the Biomechanics Laboratory (765) 285-5178
Principal Investigator: Dr. Clark Dickin (dcdickin@bsu.edu)