Symmetry Application in Motor Control in Sports and Rehabilitation

This Reprint presents a consolidated collection of research examining symmetry and asymmetry as fundamental elements of motor control in sports science and rehabilitation. Symmetry is widely regarded as a marker of optimal movement, yet increasing evidence shows that asymmetry may also reflect functional adaptation, compensation strategies, or task-specific specialization in both clinical and athletic contexts. The Reprint brings together studies addressing structural and functional symmetry across the lifespan and levels of performance. Topics include upper and lower limb asymmetry, postural alignment, bodyweight distribution, muscle activation patterns, and their relationships with balance, locomotion, daily activities, and sports-specific actions. Several contributions analyze symmetry in recreational, Olympic, and Paralympic sports, highlighting implications for performance analysis and injury prevention. Others focus on neurological and musculoskeletal conditions, demonstrating how symmetry-related metrics can inform assessment and guide rehabilitation strategies.

This Reprint provides a clear overview of how symmetry and asymmetry manifest in human movement, how they can be quantified, and how they contribute to training, prevention, and recovery. It serves as a reference resource for researchers, clinicians, and practitioners interested in advancing evidence-based applications of symmetry in motor control, sports, and rehabilitation.