Effects of Core Exercise on Posture and Trunk Endurance in Sedentary Males

Increased sedentary lifestyles due to modern technological advancements have negatively impacted posture and trunk stability. Proper posture relies on balanced dorsal and ventral muscles, trunk stabilization, and joint flexibility. Deviations in these factors may lead to postural abnormalities and, over time, structural deformities. Early detection and intervention through corrective exercises can mitigate these issues. Various measurement techniques, including 2D and 3D scanning, allow for objective posture assessment. Core stabilization exercises have been shown to influence spinal alignment and muscle endurance, improving postural control. However, limited research focuses on young adult males. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week core exercise program on posture and trunk endurance in sedentary university students. A randomized controlled trial was conducted on male university students at the University of Novi Sad, Serbia. Participants were recruited through an open call, and those with prior musculoskeletal, neurological, or metabolic conditions were excluded. The final sample included 138 participants divided into an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG). The EG followed an 8-week core stabilization program, while the CG did not receive any intervention. Postural assessments were conducted using CONTEMPLAS TEMPLO software with 2D and 3D analysis protocols. Measurements included the Fröner Posture Index (PI) and the Kyphosis-Inclination-Lordosis (KIL) scheme, evaluating thoracic kyphosis, cervico-lumbar, and lumbar-gluteal angles. Trunk endurance was assessed through the Sorensen Back Extensor Test (BET), the Abdominal Flexor Endurance Test (FET), and the Double Leg Lowering Test (DLL). The intervention program consisted of progressive core stabilization exercises, increasing in difficulty from basic planks to exercises on unstable surfaces. The experimental group underwent structured core training three times a week for eight we