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Completed

NCT Number: NCT07589816

Effects of Neuro-Athletic Training on Goalkeeper Performance

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of an 8-week neuro-athletic training (NAT) program on dynamic balance, explosive strength, grip strength, and agility in elite soccer goalkeepers. Participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental group receiving NAT in addition to regular training or a control group continuing standard training. Pre- and post-intervention performance assessments were conducted to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.

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Key information

Conditions

Athletic Performance Athletic Performance Enhancement Neuromuscular Adaptations

Age range

18 year–30 year

Sex eligibility

Male

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Gumushane Univetsity

Gümüşhane, Trabzon, Ordu, Giresun, Rize, Artvin, Gümüşhane, 29600, Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

This study was designed as a parallel-group randomized controlled trial with a pretest-posttest structure to examine the neuromuscular and performance adaptations induced by neuro-athletic training (NAT) in elite soccer goalkeepers. A total of 16 athletes competing in the TFF 3rd League and Regional Amateur League were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n=8) or a control group (n=8).

The experimental group completed an 8-week NAT intervention in addition to their regular football training, while the control group continued standard training routines. The NAT program was conducted twice weekly and incorporated visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive exercises using specialized tools such as Brock strings, pinhole glasses, and Marsden balls. The intervention followed a progressive structure across four phases, targeting visual clarity, coordination, peripheral awareness, and dynamic integration.

Primary performance outcomes included dynamic balance (Y Balance Test), agility (T-test), vertical jump (CMJ), and handgrip strength. Measurements were obtained under standardized conditions before and after the intervention. The study aimed to determine whether integrating neuro-athletic components into training enhances both neuromuscular efficiency and sport-specific performance in goalkeepers.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Elite male soccer goalkeepers Minimum 5 years of structured training experience Participation in ≥80% of team training sessions No injury in the last 6 months

Exclusion criteria

  • Musculoskeletal or neurological disorders Incomplete participation Additional external training interventions

Treatment and study plan

Neuro-Athletic Training Group

Other

Participants completed an 8-week neuro-athletic training program in addition to regular football training. The program was performed twice weekly (~20 minutes/session) and included visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive exercises (Brock string, pinhole glasses, Marsden ball). Training intensity and complexity were progressively increased across four phases.

Control Group

Other

Participants continued their regular football training without additional neuro-athletic training.

Other names: No Intervention

Primary outcomes

  1. Dynamic Balance (Y Balance Test)

    Time frame: 8 week

    The Y-Balance Test (YBT) assesses dynamic balance by measuring the distances (cm) a participant can reach anteriorly, posteromedially, and posterolaterally while standing on one leg. The composite score is obtained by dividing the sum of the three directions by the leg length and calculating it as a percentage (%), with a higher score indicating better balance.

  2. Agility (T-Test)

    Time frame: 8 week

    The 505 Agility Test measures the speed of dynamic changes of direction in seconds (s) using electronic timing gates or a stopwatch, consisting of a 10-meter sprint, a 180-degree turn, and a 5-meter reverse sprint. The fastest time of three trials is recorded, with lower times indicating better agility.

Secondary outcomes

  1. Vertical Jump (Countermovement Jump)

    Time frame: 8 Week

    Vertical jump (CMJ) height is a secondary outcome measure measured in centimeters (cm) using a force platform (Hawkin Dynamics) device, performed with maximum effort with hands on hips. The measurement is recorded based on a baseline and the best of three trials over a specified time interval (8 weeks).

  2. Handgrip Strength

    Time frame: 8 week

    Maximal isometric hand grip strength measured in kilograms (kg) using a standardized Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer. Measurements will be performed in a standardized sitting position with 90-degree elbow flexion. Three trials will be recorded for each hand, and the highest value (or mean) will be used for analysis

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Coşkun YILMAZ

Other

Registry information

Official study title

From Neural Input to Athletic Output: Effects of Neuro-Athletic Training on Dynamic Balance, Strength, and Agility in Elite Soccer Goalkeepers

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2025
First posted
May 15, 2026
Registry last updated
May 15, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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