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Completed

NCT Number: NCT06921772

The Effects of PNF Stretching on Anaerobic Power and Motor Performance in Adolescent Male Volleyball Players

This randomized controlled study aimed to examine the effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching exercises on anaerobic power and motor performance in adolescent male volleyball players. Eighteen participants aged 15 to 17 years were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group performed PNF stretching exercises three times per week for six weeks, in addition to their regular volleyball training. The control group continued their standard volleyball training without PNF stretching. Outcome measures included anaerobic power, flexibility, balance, speed, push-up, and crunch tests. The study hypothesizes that PNF stretching will improve motor performance indicators in adolescent athletes.

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Key information

Conditions

Motor Performance Anaerobic Power Flexibility Stretching

Age range

15 year–17 year

Sex eligibility

Male

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Gaziantep University, Faculty of Sport Sciences

Gaziantep, Şehitkamil, 27350, Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

This clinical trial investigates the effects of a six-week proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching intervention on motor performance in adolescent male volleyball players. A total of 18 participants with at least 6 months of volleyball training experience were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group (n=9) and the control group (n=9). The experimental group received PNF stretching exercises in addition to their routine training three times per week for six weeks, while the control group continued only with their routine training.

The main outcome measures were anaerobic power (Margaria-Kalamen Test), flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test), balance (Flamingo Balance Test), speed (20 m sprint), upper body strength (Push-up Test), and core strength (Crunch Test). Pre- and post-test evaluations were conducted. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on flexibility and functional performance development in adolescent athletes and aims to support evidence-based training practices in sports sciences.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

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

Inclusion criteria

  • Male participants
  • Aged between 15 and 17 years
  • At least 2 years of volleyball training experience
  • Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study
  • No recent musculoskeletal injuries (in the last 6 months)

Exclusion criteria

  • Participants with any diagnosed neurological or cardiovascular disorder
  • Current use of performance-enhancing drugs or supplements
  • History of lower extremity surgery
  • Inability to complete the training or testing sessions
  • Failure to provide written informed consent

Treatment and study plan

PNF Stretching Exercise

Behavioral

Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) stretching exercises were applied three times per week for six weeks. The intervention included contract-relax and hold-relax techniques targeting lower extremity muscle groups, conducted in addition to regular volleyball training.

Primary outcomes

  1. Anaerobic Power (Margaria-Kalamen Test)

    Time frame: Baseline and after 6-week intervention

    Anaerobic power will be evaluated using the Margaria-Kalamen test, which measures power output based on the time taken to run up a staircase. The test will be conducted at baseline and after 6 weeks.

  2. Hamstring Flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test)

    Time frame: Baseline and after 6-week intervention

    Hamstring flexibility will be measured with the Sit-and-Reach test. Participants sit on the floor with legs extended and reach forward. The distance reached is recorded in centimeters.

  3. Static Balance Performance

    Time frame: Baseline and after 6-week intervention

    Static balance will be measured by having participants stand on one leg for a defined duration without support. Performance will be evaluated based on duration of balance and postural stability.

  4. Sprint Performance (20-m Sprint Test)

    Time frame: Baseline and after 6-week intervention

    Speed performance will be measured using the 20-meter sprint test. Participants will run 20 meters at maximal effort, and the time taken will be recorded in seconds.

  5. Upper Body Endurance (Push-Up Test)

    Time frame: Baseline and after 6-week intervention

    Upper body muscular endurance will be evaluated by counting the number of push-ups performed within 30 seconds.

  6. Core Endurance (Crunch Test)

    Time frame: Baseline and after 6-week intervention

    Core endurance will be assessed by counting the number of crunches a participant can perform in 30 seconds.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Zarife Pancar

Other

Registry information

Official study title

The Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching Exercises on Anaerobic Power and Motor Performance in Adolescent Male Volleyball Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Acronym: PNF-VMVP

Important dates

Study start
2023
Primary completion
2023
Study completion
2023
First posted
Apr 10, 2025
Registry last updated
Apr 16, 2025

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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