Research on Jumping Height of Straight Jumps and Barani Jumps in Competitive Trampoline Gymnasts: Influence of Occlusal Correction

Author(s): Mutsumi Takahashi, Yogetsu Bando, Takuya Fukui

The purpose of this study was to clarify the influence of occlusion on jumping height in trampoline gymnasts. Participants were 13 male trampoline gymnasts. To improve the occlusal contact state, a custom mouthguard was fabricated. Postural control function was evaluated by using a cross-test and the R/E value was calculated. Measurements were conducted both before and after the mouthguard intervention. Trials comprised straight jumps and barani jumps. The flight time of the jumps was measured, and the jump height was calculated. Measurements were taken at three time points: before the mouthguard intervention, immediately after the mouthguard intervention, and 2 months after the mouthguard intervention. Differences in R/E values before and after the mouthguard intervention were analyzed. A comparison of the jump height increase rate immediately after the intervention and 2 months after the intervention in straight- and barani jumps was analyzed. Correlation with the jump height increase rate 2 months after the intervention for each trial was analyzed. The R/E value was significantly higher after the mouthguard intervention. For both trials, the rate of increase in jump height was significantly greater 2 months after the mouthguard intervention than immediately after the intervention. A significant positive correlation was found between the rate of increase in R/E value and the rate of increase in jump height for each trial. The results of this study suggest that occlusal correction using a mouthguard improves the postural control function of trampoline gymnasts and thereby improves the jump height of straight- and barani jumps.