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NCT Number: NCT07700641

The Effect of Different Types of Squat Exercises on Muscle Strength and Muscle Oxygenation

The study was conducted using a randomized controlled trial design. Participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either the "Classic Squat Group" or the "Heel-Elevated Squat Group." Both groups completed an 8-week strength training program consisting of three sessions per week, following the resistance exercise principles recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine. The main component of the program was the assigned squat variation.

Baseline and post-intervention assessments at 8 weeks were performed according to standardized protocols. Exercise sessions were supervised by an experienced physiotherapist to ensure proper technique and minimize injury risk. Training intensity was progressively increased based on participants' adaptation and one-repetition maximum (1-RM) strength levels.

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Key information

Conditions

Exercise Physiology Muscle Strength and Oxygenation

Age range

18 year–35 year

Sex eligibility

Female

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Uskudar University

Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

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

Inclusion criteria

  • No musculoskeletal, neurological, or cardiopulmonary conditions that would prevent participation in exercise
  • Healthy young adults
  • No regular lower extremity training participation in the last 6 months

Exclusion criteria

  • History of surgery or serious injury to the knee, hip, or ankle joints within the past year
  • Presence of any neurological disorder affecting balance or motor control
  • Presence of any cardiovascular or pulmonary disease that contraindicates exercise participation

Treatment and study plan

Classic Squat Group

Other

Participants in the Classic Squat Group performed a progressive resistance training program three days per week for a total of eight weeks. The squat exercise was performed with full foot contact maintained on a stable ground surface. Training intensity was prescribed at 70-85% of each participant's one-repetition maximum (1-RM) and was progressively adjusted according to individual adaptation. All training sessions were supervised by a physiotherapist to ensure correct technique and safety.

Heel-Elevated Squat Group

Other

Participants in the Heel-Elevated Squat Group also completed a progressive resistance training program three days per week for eight weeks. The squat exercise was performed using a 20-degree inclined platform placed under the heels. Training intensity was set at 70-85% of each participant's one-repetition maximum (1-RM) and was progressively increased based on individual performance and adaptation. All sessions were conducted under the supervision of a physiotherapist to maintain proper form and reduce injury risk.

Primary outcomes

  1. Muscle Oxygenation (Moxy Monitor - NIRS)

    Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks post-intervention

    Muscle oxygenation was assessed using a near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)-based Moxy Monitor. The device was placed on the vastus lateralis muscle of the quadriceps during exercise to continuously and non-invasively record the balance between local oxygen delivery and utilization.

Secondary outcomes

  1. Muscle Strength (Isomed 2000 Isokinetic Dynamometer)

    Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks post-intervention

    Quadriceps muscle strength was assessed using a Isomed 2000 isokinetic dynamometer, which is considered a gold-standard method for evaluating muscle performance. Isokinetic testing measures maximal torque produced by the muscle throughout the range of motion at a constant angular velocity, providing reliable data on muscle function. Knee extension strength were evaluated.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Uskudar University

Other

Registry information

Important dates

Study start
2026
Primary completion
2026
Study completion
2026
First posted
Jul 14, 2026
Registry last updated
Jul 14, 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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