Supervisors info:
Σταύρου Νεκτάριος, Αναπληρωτής Καθηγητής , Τμήμα Φυσικής Αγωγής και Αθλητισμού , Εθνικόν και Καποδιστριακόν Πανεπιστήμιον Αθηνών
Summary:
Proprioception and kinesthesis are fundamental psychomotor elements that are directly linked to athletic performance, significantly influencing an athlete's skill and movement efficiency. Although these concepts are interrelated, kinesthesis refers to the sensation of movement, whereas proprioception pertains to the sense of position. A key point in differentiating proprioception and kinesthesis lies in the mechanism of action and the role of the muscle spindle's stimulus transmission. The term proprioception is used to describe the physiological processes within the sensorimotor system, encompassing spatial awareness and balance perception. On the other hand, kinesthesis is the awareness of changes in the position of body parts, movement, and force. In sports, proprioception and kinesthesis play a crucial role in executing complex movements with precision and speed. An athlete with well-developed proprioception can maintain balance and stability during exercises, even under conditions of intense stress or fatigue. At the same time, good kinesthetic perception allows the athlete to perform movements accurately, adapt quickly to environmental changes, and avoid injuries. Enhancing these abilities through training can improve athletic performance. Mental imagery plays a crucial role in training proprioception and kinesthesis, recognized as a technique for improving athletes' physical and psychological preparation. Additionally, proprioception and kinesthesis training can include various exercises for balance, agility, and coordination, which help athletes develop better body awareness and improve their movement and control. Therefore, proper perception of position and movement can reduce the risk of injuries, making athletes more resilient and effective in their performance.
Keywords:
proprioception, kinesthesia, mental imagery, psychomotor elements, sport, performance
