Acute Effects of Oblique Sling Exercise on Core Stability and Trunk Muscle Strength in Healthy Adults: A Comparative Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Core stability is essential for maintaining trunk control, postural alignment, and efficient functional movement. Oblique sling exercises, based on integrated myofascial chains, are increasingly used to enhance neuromuscular coordination and dynamic trunk stability. However, evidence regarding their immediate effects on core and trunk muscle performance remains limited. Objective: To evaluate the immediate effects of oblique sling exercises on core strength, trunk muscle strength in healthy individuals. Methods: A comparative experimental study was conducted on 43 healthy participants. Baseline measurements of core strength and trunk muscle strength were assessed using standardized tools. Participants performed a single session of oblique sling exercises consisting of three sets of ten repetitions, targeting both anterior and posterior sling systems. Post-intervention measurements were recorded immediately after the exercise session. Results: The findings demonstrated a significant immediate improvement in both core and trunk muscle strength following the intervention. The improvement was more pronounced in core strength compared (p=0.01) to trunk strength (p=0.03), indicating greater activation of deep stabilizing musculature. These results suggest enhanced neuromuscular efficiency and improved stabilization capacity after a single exercise session. Conclusion: A single session of oblique sling exercises leads to rapid improvements in both core and trunk strength, with a greater effect on core musculature. This highlights the effectiveness of oblique sling exercises in enhancing core stability and supporting postural control.