Assessment criteria for evaluating the stability and position of the centre of gravity on a balance training platform: a simulation with Matlab®

Abstract

The anterior–posterior and medial–lateral tipping values of a training platform within the scope of a balance training activity should be evaluated in regard to position and the changing position of the centre of gravity (COG). Data streams are simulated and modulated with the help of the signal processing programme Matlab®. These data streams are evaluated using existing balance formulas and a specially developed formula. Active Balance Index referring to the zero point (ABI₀) allows an assertion about the magnitude of the mean tipping angle with the magnitude origin in the centre of the training platform. Active Balance Index referring to the arithmetical mean COG (ABI_mean) enables an assertion about the mean tipping angle with the magnitude origin in the COG mean position. The deviation of the mean COG from absolute balance which is projected onto the platform is calculated by the Active Balance Ratio (ABR). The Active Balance Index (ABI) in combination with the ABR seems to be an adequate parameter for the evaluation of COG stability on a training platform.

Keywords:

• Training platform
• Active Balance Index
• Active Balance Ratio

Acknowledgement

Very special thanks go to my sister Mag.^a Andrea Ambrozi-Friedrich for translating this article into English.

Declaration of interest:

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.