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NCT Number: NCT07596420

Structured Neuromuscular Exercise Program

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of an 8-week structured neuromuscular exercise program on running performance and lower extremity biomechanics in recreational runners. The program includes progressive exercises focusing on hip and core strength, balance, plyometric control, and running-specific mobility. Participants will be randomly assigned to an intervention or control group. The intervention group will perform the neuromuscular training twice a week for eight weeks, while the control group will not receive any structured exercise. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will include biomechanical analysis and functional performance tests. The study aims to provide evidence for the preventive and performance-enhancing benefits of neuromuscular training in runners.

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Key information

Age range

18 year–55 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Pt Academy

Kadıköy, Istanbul, 34726, Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

Running is a repetitive and high-impact activity that places significant mechanical stress on the lower extremities. Improper movement patterns, muscle imbalances, and reduced neuromuscular control have been identified as key contributors to running-related injuries. Previous studies have demonstrated that neuromuscular training can enhance movement efficiency, improve joint stability, and reduce injury risk in athletic populations. However, there is limited evidence on the structured and progressive application of neuromuscular exercise programs specifically designed for recreational runners.

The present randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of an 8-week structured neuromuscular exercise program on running performance and lower extremity biomechanics in recreational runners. The intervention includes progressive exercises focusing on hip and core strength, dynamic balance, plyometric control, and running-specific mobility. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention or control group. The intervention group will perform the neuromuscular training twice weekly under supervision, while the control group will maintain their usual physical activity routine. Biomechanical assessments and functional performance tests will be conducted before and after the intervention period. This study seeks to provide scientific evidence supporting the preventive and performance-enhancing benefits of neuromuscular training in runners, contributing to injury prevention and performance optimization strategies.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

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

Inclusion criteria

  • Age between 18 and 55 years

Recreational runners who have been running regularly (at least twice per week for the last 6 months)

No current musculoskeletal injury limiting running

Willing to participate in the 8-week neuromuscular exercise program and attend follow-up assessments

Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion criteria

  • History of lower limb surgery or fracture in the past 6 months

Neurological, vestibular, or systemic diseases affecting balance or gait

Current participation in a structured strength or neuromuscular training program

Pregnancy

Treatment and study plan

Structured Neuromuscular Exercise Program

Behavioral

An 8-week structured neuromuscular exercise program including progressive exercises targeting hip and core strength, dynamic balance, plyometric control, and running-specific mobility. The program is performed twice per week under supervision. It is designed to improve running performance, neuromuscular control, and lower limb biomechanics in recreational runners.

Primary outcomes

  1. Running performance

    Time frame: Baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention

    Change in running performance will be assessed using a standardized time-trial test to evaluate the effectiveness of the neuromuscular exercise program in improving endurance and speed in recreational runners.

Secondary outcomes

  1. Dynamic balance

    Time frame: Baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention

    Balance performance will be evaluated using the Y-Balance Test to determine improvements in postural control after the neuromuscular training intervention.

  2. Lower limb strength

    Time frame: Baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention

    hip abductor muscle strength will be measured using handheld dynamometry

Study contacts

Contact information is provided by the study sponsor or research team.

ELIF TUNC, PhD

CONTACT

[email protected]

090-535-076-3139

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Elif Tunç

Other

Registry information

Official study title

The Effect of s Structured Neuromuscular Exercise Program on Running Performance and Lower Extremity Biomechanics in Recreational Runners

Acronym: nmep-run

Important dates

Study start
2026
Primary completion
2026
Study completion
2026
First posted
May 19, 2026
Registry last updated
May 19, 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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