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Completed

NCT Number: NCT07403461

HIIT Effects on Table Tennis Players

This study aims to investigate the effects of two different Tabata-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT) modalities on neuromuscular and physiological performance in competitive table tennis players. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a calisthenic/plyometric HIIT group or a kettlebell-based HIIT group. Both groups will perform their respective training protocols in addition to regular table tennis training for eight weeks. Physical performance and physiological variables will be assessed before and after the intervention.

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Key information

Conditions

Physical Fitness Exercise Performance Neuromuscular Function

Age range

18 year–24 year

Sex eligibility

Male

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Karabük University

Karabük, Merkez, 78000, Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

This study is designed as a randomized parallel-group interventional trial to examine the effects of two different Tabata-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT) modalities on neuromuscular and physiological parameters in competitive table tennis players.

Twenty-four male athletes aged between 18 and 24 years will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: a calisthenic/plyometric HIIT group or a kettlebell-based HIIT group. Both groups will continue their regular table tennis training and additionally perform their assigned HIIT protocol three times per week for a total duration of eight weeks.

The calisthenic/plyometric HIIT program consists of bodyweight and plyometric exercises performed in a Tabata format, while the kettlebell HIIT program consists of resistance-based exercises using kettlebells performed in the same interval structure. Each training session lasts approximately 20-30 minutes.

Outcome measures will be assessed before and after the intervention period and will include agility, flexibility, vertical jump performance, sprint performance, peak and average power output, and maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max).

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

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

Inclusion criteria

  • Male table tennis athletes aged 18-24 years.
  • Minimum of 2 years of regular competitive table tennis experience.
  • Currently performing structured training at least 3 days per week.
  • Medically cleared for high-intensity exercise.
  • Voluntary participation and signed informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

  • Any chronic illness or cardiovascular/metabolic disorders.
  • Musculoskeletal injury within the last 6 months that limits physical activity.
  • Participation in other high-intensity training programs outside the study protocol during the intervention.
  • Inability to complete at least 90% of the scheduled intervention sessions.
  • Signs of acute injury, excessive fatigue, or cardiovascular abnormalities during screening.

Treatment and study plan

Calisthenic/Plyometric HIIT

Behavioral

Participants perform a high-intensity Tabata protocol focusing on calisthenic and plyometric exercises designed to improve agility, flexibility, vertical jump performance, and neuromuscular function. Each session lasts 20-30 minutes, three times per week for eight weeks, in addition to regular table tennis training.

Other names: Tabata-style Calisthenic HIIT

Kettlebell HIIT

Behavioral

Participants perform a high-intensity Tabata protocol focusing on kettlebell exercises designed to improve sprint performance, VO₂max, and overall physiological adaptations. Each session lasts 20-30 minutes, three times per week for eight weeks, in addition to regular table tennis training.

Other names: Tabata-style Kettlebell HIIT

Primary outcomes

  1. Agility Performance (seconds)

    Time frame: Pre-intervention and post-intervention (8 weeks)

    Agility will be assessed using a standardized T-test protocol to measure change-of-direction speed.

  2. Flexibility (cm)

    Time frame: Pre-intervention and post-intervention (8 weeks)

    A sitting and reaching test will be used to assess lower body flexibility.

Secondary outcomes

  1. Vertical Jump Height (cm)

    Time frame: Pre-intervention and post-intervention (8 weeks)

    Vertical jump performance will be measured using a countermovement jump test performed on a jump mat.

  2. Sprint Performance - 10 m (seconds)

    Time frame: Pre-intervention and post-intervention (8 weeks)

    Sprint performance will be assessed over a distance of 10 meters using electronic timing gates.

  3. Peak Power Output (Watts)

    Time frame: Pre-intervention and post-intervention (8 weeks)

    Peak power output will be measured using a standardized lower-body power assessment.

  4. Maximal Oxygen Uptake (VO₂max) (ml/kg/min)

    Time frame: Pre-intervention and post-intervention (8 weeks)

    Maximal oxygen uptake (VO₂max) will be assessed using a graded exercise test performed on a treadmill or cycle ergometer.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Karabuk University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Comparative Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training Modalities on Physical Performance and Physiological Responses in Competitive Table Tennis Players

Acronym: HIIT-TTP

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2026
First posted
Feb 11, 2026
Registry last updated
Feb 11, 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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