Development of EMG-guided QUADRICORE exercise protocol targeting myofascial slings and exploring its efficacy on core and limb performance

Muscles connected along a common fascia forming the myofascial slings would work better to stabilize the lumbopelvic region and thereby help strengthen the core and limb functions in a more comprehensive method than through individual means of training. Hence the purpose of the study was to develop a novel ‘Quadricore’ exercise protocol and evaluate its effects on core strength and functional performance. The development of the protocol was based on kinesio-EMG analysis on 6 athletes who performed 15 exercises including all the 4 slings out of which 8 exercises were included in the protocol. For validation, a pilot study was done with plank hold as the outcome measure in which participants were trained thrice a week for 4 weeks which showed significant improvement. This validated protocol was then tested on 18 healthy individuals on outcome measures like, plank hold test, seated medicine ball throw, and gait speed, and a pre–post evaluation was taken.