Acute Effects of Percussion Massage Therapy in Young Competitive Cyclists

Not Applicable

Recruiting

• Conditions: Balanced

• Registration Number: NCT07206576
• Lead Sponsor: Medipol University

Brief Summary

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the acute effects of percussion massage therapy (PMT) on balance, explosive strength, and functional performance in adolescent competitive cyclists aged 12-15. A total of 32 participants will be randomly assigned to either a PMT group, which will receive a single session of vibration-based therapy using a handheld percussion device (Compex Fixx 2.0), or a control group with passive rest. Performance parameters will be assessed using the Y Balance Test, vertical jump, hop tests, 10-second sprint cycling, and isometric muscle strength via dynamometry. The study seeks to determine whether PMT offers short-term neuromuscular benefits that may enhance cycling performance in youth athletes.

Detailed Description

Cycling is a sport that requires repetitive and rhythmic activation of the lower extremity muscles, where balance, endurance, and muscular power are critical. In adolescent athletes aged 12-15, musculoskeletal structures are still developing, and interventions aimed at enhancing performance must be carefully investigated in terms of both efficacy and safety.

Percussion massage therapy (PMT) is a novel method that combines elements of traditional massage and vibration therapy, applying rapid mechanical pulses to soft tissues using handheld devices. PMT has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential to enhance circulation, reduce muscle stiffness, and improve neuromuscular function. Studies suggest that PMT can produce acute effects such as improved proprioception, reduced muscle tone, and enhanced explosive performance.

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the acute effects of PMT on dynamic balance, explosive strength, and functional performance in young competitive cyclists. Thirty-two participants, aged 12 to 15, who have been licensed cyclists for at least 2 years and train regularly, will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving PMT or a control group undergoing passive rest.

The intervention group will receive a single session of PMT using the Compex® Fixx™ 2.0 device, applied bilaterally to the gluteus maximus, quadriceps femoris, and gastrocnemius muscles at 41.7 Hz for 3 minutes per muscle group. The control group will remain seated for an equivalent rest period.

Performance outcomes will be assessed using the Y Balance Test, Vertical Jump Test, single-leg hop test (triple hop), 10-second cycling sprint test, and handheld dynamometry to measure isometric muscle strength. In addition, subjective muscle relaxation will be evaluated pre- and post-intervention using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).

The findings of this study will contribute to the limited body of evidence regarding vibration-based interventions in youth athletes and help determine whether PMT is a viable strategy to acutely improve neuromuscular performance in adolescent cyclists.

Study Timeline

• Study Start: 2025-08-30
• Status Verified: 2025-09
• Study First Submitted: 2025-09-26
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-09-26
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-09-26
• Study First Posted: 2025-10-03
• Last Update Posted: 2025-10-03
• Primary Completion: 2025-11-20
• Study Completion: 2025-11-20

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: RECRUITING
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 32

Inclusion Criteria

• Aged between 12 and 15 years
• Licensed competitive cyclist for at least 2 years
• Participating in at least 4 training sessions per week
• No lower extremity injuries in the past 6 months
• Voluntary participation by signing the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria

• History of surgery in the knee, hip, or ankle joints
• Presence of neurological, vestibular, or systemic balance disorders
• Use of medications that may affect performance
• Any orthopedic condition that prevents participation in performance tests

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Y Balance Test Composite Score	Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention	The Y Balance Test will be used to assess dynamic balance by measuring reach distances in three directions (anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral) while standing on one leg. Each direction will be tested three times, and the average reach distance will be normalized to leg length. A composite score will be calculated and expressed as a percentage to evaluate overall dynamic balance capacity. Higher scores indicate better balance performance.

Secondary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
Vertical Jump Height	Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention	The Vertical Jump Test will be used to evaluate explosive strength of the lower extremities. Participants will perform a maximal vertical jump from a semi-squat position with arm swing allowed. Jump height will be recorded in centimeters using a vertical measurement device or a jump mat system. The highest value among three trials will be used for analysis. Improved jump height reflects enhanced lower limb power.
Single-Leg Hop Distance (Triple Hop Test)	Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention	The Triple Hop Test evaluates lower limb strength, power, and dynamic stability. Participants will perform three consecutive forward hops on the same leg along a straight line, aiming for maximal distance. The total distance from toe-off to the final landing point will be measured in centimeters. The longest of three valid trials will be recorded. Increased hop distance indicates improved functional performance.
Isometric Muscle Strength (Gluteus Maximus, Quadriceps, Gastrocnemius)	Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention	Isometric strength of gluteus maximus, quadriceps femoris, and gastrocnemius will be measured using a handheld dynamometer. Standardized positioning and stabilization techniques will be used to ensure reliability. Three maximal contractions will be performed for each muscle, and the highest value (in Newtons) will be recorded for analysis. Greater force output reflects improved neuromuscular capacity.
10-Second Sprint Performance (Modified Wingate Test)	Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention	Sprint cycling performance will be assessed using a stationary cycle ergometer. After a warm-up, participants will perform a 10-second all-out sprint with standardized resistance. Peak power (Watts) and sprint distance (meters) will be recorded. This test reflects anaerobic capacity and explosive leg power.
Subjective Muscle Relaxation (Numeric Rating Scale - NRS)	Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention	Subjective perception of muscle relaxation will be assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), ranging from 0 (no relaxation) to 10 (complete relaxation). Participants will rate their perceived muscle tension and relaxation immediately before and after the intervention to quantify perceived benefits.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

Tayfun Arslan; Sinop, Turkey (Türkiye)