The acute effects of kinesio-taping on movement kinematics and muscle co-activation in rowing athletes.

This study examined the effects of kinesiology tape (KT) applied to the trunk dorsum on neuromuscular control and joint kinematics during a 2000 m rowing trial in 18 healthy rowing athletes. KT application resulted in a significant reduction in mean trunk muscle co-activation during the rowing stroke, particularly in the catch position, but responses varied, with only a subset of participants ("responders") showing reduced maximum lumbar flexion. No significant changes were observed in lower extremity joint range of motion or perceived fatigue between KT and baseline conditions. The findings suggest that KT-derived sensory feedback may influence lumbar spine mechanics and reduce potentially injurious muscle co-activation during rowing, though further research is needed to optimize KT application and understand its effects across diverse athletic populations and movement tasks.