This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of an 8-week neuro-athletic training (NAT) program in enhancing sport-specific skills and physical capacities in elite male football players aged 18-23 years. Participants were randomly assigned to a NAT intervention group or a control group that maintained standard training. The NAT program involved oculomotor, vestibular, and proprioceptive drills. Primary outcomes include passing and shooting accuracy; secondary outcomes include flexibility and isokinetic knee strength.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
56
Participants receive a structured 8-week NAT program including oculomotor, vestibular, and proprioceptive drills, 3 sessions/week (35-45 minutes each).
Participants continue their standard in-season football training program without any NAT components.
Balikesir University
Balıkesir, Turkey (Türkiye)
Passing Accuracy (Mor-Christian Passing Test)
Measured as a score (max 120) based on 12 passes from 7, 8.5, and 10 meters toward a mini-goal. Assessed pre- and post-intervention.
Time frame: Pre-intervention (baseline) and post-intervention (after 8 weeks).
Shooting Accuracy (Mor-Christian Shooting Test)
Measured as a score (max 80) based on 16 shots from 14.5 meters toward four 45 cm targets. Assessed pre- and post-intervention.
Time frame: Pre-intervention (baseline) and post-intervention (after 8 weeks).
Flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test)
Measured in centimeters using a standard sit-and-reach box, assessing hamstring and lower back flexibility.
Time frame: Pre-intervention (baseline) and post-intervention (after 8 weeks)
Isokinetic Knee Strength (ISOMED 2000 Dynamometer)
Concentric peak torque of quadriceps and hamstrings at 60°/s (5 repetitions) and 180°/s (15 repetitions), normalized to body mass (Nm/kg), and hamstring-to-quadriceps (H:Q) ratio.
Time frame: Pre-intervention (baseline) and post-intervention (after 8 weeks).
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