How is steadiness primarily defined?

Steadiness is primarily defined as the amount of sway while maintaining a static position. This definition captures the essence of steadiness as it relates to the control of balance. When a person is considered steady, they can hold a position with a minimized amount of oscillation or movement, which reflects their ability to maintain equilibrium despite potential perturbations.

This concept is crucial in fields such as kinesiology and physical therapy, where evaluating a person's stability and control can indicate their fitness level, postural control, and risk of falls. The focus on "sway" highlights the inherent challenge of maintaining a static stance, as it acknowledges the natural, often involuntary minor movements that occur when a person attempts to hold a position.

When considering the other definitions, resistance to external forces pertains more to dynamic stability and strength rather than static steadiness. Maintenance of balance with minimal sway is a related concept but doesn’t capture the specific aspect of measuring the actual sway that can occur. Reaction time in stable conditions deals with responsiveness rather than balance and steadiness itself. Thus, concentrating on sway provides the most accurate definition for understanding the nuances of steadiness in a static position.