An experimental analysis of dynamic and static equilibrium.

Abstract

Dynamic equilibrium of the standing human subject was measured by an unstable platform. Perceptual and motor components of body orientation were studied by a new double-axle rotation chair. Static equilibrium was measured by the Miles ataxiameter at the head level in cm. Measurements of weight, height, foot length, and CG-distance were recorded and correlated with dynamic and static equilibrium components. Relationships between equilibrium components and other motor skills were also studied. Dynamic and static equilibrium were quite unrelated as indicated by the zero correlation between stabilometer performance and body sway. There was low correlation between balancing skill and manual orientation of the body on the rotation chair. There were low correlations between the perceptual and motor components of body orientation skills. Wt. was of great importance and height of little importance in balancing skill; neither of these factors were important in sway. The CG-distance had a high correlation with standing height. When wt. was controlled women had slightly higher scores than men on the stabilometer. Both dynamic and static equilibrium were greatly aided when visual cues were present.