The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to investigate the effects of core training and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on muscle oxygenation and athletic performance in youth male soccer players aged 15-18. A total of 54 healthy soccer players will be included and randomly assigned into three equal groups: the Control Group, the Core Training Group, and the Core Training + IMT Group.
All interventions will be implemented for 8 weeks in addition to routine soccer training sessions. Assessments will be performed at baseline (Week 0), mid-intervention (Week 4), and post-intervention (Week 8). The primary outcome measures of the study are aerobic capacity assessed by the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 and muscle oxygenation parameters monitored via near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) using a MOXY monitor. Secondary outcome measures include sprint performance, agility, dynamic balance, core muscle strength and endurance, inspiratory muscle strength, lower extremity explosive power, and soccer-specific technical performance tests.
Overall, this study aims to reveal the combined effects of core training and inspiratory muscle training on muscle oxygenation, respiratory functions, aerobic capacity, and soccer performance, while explaining the underlying physiological mechanisms in youth athletes.
Being between 15 and 18 years of age.
Being a male soccer player.
Actively and regularly participating in trainings at Alagöz Soccer Club.
Having participated in regular soccer training for at least the last 6 months.
Having a history of lower extremity, trunk-core, or athletic performance-limiting injury within the last 6 months.
Having undergone orthopedic lower extremity or spine surgery within the last 1 year.
Having active musculoskeletal pain or any orthopedic/neurological condition that prevents exercise.
Having any health condition that prevents the safe execution of balance, sprint, agility, jump, or core endurance tests.
Parallel
Core Training Program
BehavioralA structured, progressive core stability training program targeting trunk and abdominal musculature. The exercises will be conducted 3 days a week for 8 weeks, taking approximately 20-25 minutes before soccer practices.
Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT)
DeviceInspiratory muscle training performed using a threshold device. The protocol consists of 2 sets of 30 breaths per session, 3 days a week for 8 weeks. Training intensity starts at 50% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and progresses up to 70% MIP.
Aerobic Capacity
Assessed using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1) to determine the total distance covered in meters.
Muscle Oxygen Saturation (SmO2)
Measured in percentage (%) during exercise using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) via a MOXY monitor to evaluate muscle oxygenation.
Total Hemoglobin (THb)
Measured in arbitrary units or micro-molar concentrations using a MOXY monitor (NIRS technology) to assess local blood volume changes and muscle hemodynamics.
20-Meter Sprint Performance
Assessed using a 20-meter sprint test with a manual stopwatch to measure running speed in seconds.
Agility Performance
Measured using the Illinois Agility Test to evaluate the participant's ability to change direction quickly, recorded in seconds.
Dynamic Balance
Assessed using the Y-Balance Test (YBT) to measure dynamic balance and stability in anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions, recorded in centimeters.
Core Muscle Strength and Endurance
Evaluated using core endurance tests (such as plank, side bridge, and trunk flexor/extensor endurance tests) to measure the holding time in seconds.
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