Functional and dynamic asymmetry of simple reaction time in female fencers

THE AIM OF THE STUDY: was to assess the functional and dynamic components of asymmetry in the simple reaction time in female fencers, holders of the master, first or second sport class. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A group of 45 female fencers, classified into 3 groups according to the sport class were studied. Dynamic asymmetry was assessed with the use of the Viennese Test System. The time of reaction and of simple movement to visual and acoustic stimuli was determined. RESULTS: Master class fencers exhibited a high (40%) left-side domination while those from the other two groups had right-side asymmetry (80%), the difference in the median reaction time between those groups being significant (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The pronounced dynamic asymmetry observed in master class fencers was due to a highly specific, one-sided training. It should be emphasised that asymmetrical exercises combined with very high training loads applied in the contemporary sport may lead to overloads of extremities, spine deformations and injuries.