Study of 15% Versus 30% Velocity Loss Thresholds During Bodyweight Squats and Their Effects on Strength and Endurance in Young Women

This randomized controlled trial will examine the effects of two intra-set velocity loss (VL) thresholds, 15% and 30%, during bodyweight squats on lower-limb strength and muscular endurance in non-athletic young female adults. Velocity-based resistance training (VBRT) is increasingly used to regulate training intensity and volume, but most existing evidence comes from trained male athletes performing loaded exercises. There is limited research on accessible, equipment-free protocols such as bodyweight squats, particularly in underrepresented populations such as non-athletic young women.

A total of 52 female university students aged 18-25 years will be recruited using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Participants will be randomly assigned to either the 15% Velocity Loss group or the 30% Velocity Loss group, with 26 participants per group. Both groups will perform bodyweight squat sessions three times per week for six weeks.

Outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention by a blinded assessor. Primary outcomes include lower-limb strength and muscular endurance. Data will be analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

The study aims to determine whether a lower Velocity Loss threshold (15%) produces comparable improvements in strength and endurance to a higher Velocity Loss threshold (30%) when using bodyweight squats. Findings will provide evidence to guide physiotherapists, exercise professionals, and health educators in designing safe, accessible, and effective training programs for non-athletic young women.

Inclusion criteria

• Female participants
• 18-25 Years
• Body Mass Index less than 30 kg/m²
• Low physical activity level
• Able to perform body weight squats without pain or assistance

Exclusion criteria

• Recent Cardiovascular Disease
• Current Patellar Injury
• Recent Musculoskeletal Injuries
• Current Pregnancy or Postpartum Period within the last 6 months
• Participation in resistance or endurance training programs in the past 6 months.