Effects of Conditioning Activities in Female Athletes

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocol: This study uses a randomized crossover design in which participants complete three conditions (real conditioning activity, SHAM, and control), reducing inter-individual variability. A key feature is the SHAM condition designed to control for placebo and expectancy effects, combining low-load resistance exercise (20% 1RM), verbal suggestion, and simulated blood flow restriction (15 mmHg), insufficient to induce physiological responses. All conditions are strictly standardized, including a warm-up, metronome-controlled cadence, fixed rest intervals, and equal total duration. The conditioning activity (drop jump) is performed at maximal intensity with individualized box height and standardized technique. The study focuses exclusively on female athletes and includes evaluator blinding, addressing gaps in research and improving control of psychophysiological influences on performance.

Study summary

This study will investigate how different warm-up strategies affect physical performance in female athletes who practice invasion sports (e.g., soccer, handball, and basketball). Participants will complete three different conditions: a standard warm-up only, a warm-up followed by a performance-enhancing activity, and a warm-up followed by a low-intensity activity designed to simulate the same expectations without real physiological effects.

After each condition, athletes will perform tests of vertical jump performance and change-of-direction speed. In addition, participants will report their perceived effort, expectations, muscle soreness, and recovery status.

The study will include eighteen female athletes and will be conducted under controlled conditions, including standardized hydration, recovery, and environmental factors. The design will allow comparison of the physical and psychological effects of the different warm-up strategies on performance.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Countermovement Jump Height — Baseline (pre-intervention) following each experimental condition within the same session.
  Countermovement jump height (cm), assessed under standardized conditions using a contact mat. Participants will perform three attempts, and the mean value will be used for analysis. Jumps will be executed with hands on hips to minimize upper-body contribution. Measurements will be collected at baseline and after each experimental condition to evaluate changes in performance.

Trial sites (1)

Other trials for the same condition