HealthyNCT06997783
Acute Effects of Moderate and Maximal Squat Loading on Ju-do-Specific Performance in Elite Judokas
An observational study of Healthy, run by Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
This study will investigate the acute effects of two squat-based post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols-moderate load (80% of 6RM) and maximal load (100% of 1RM)-on judo-specific performance in elite male judokas. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 25 years, men onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Healthy
- What is being tested?
- warm up
- How many people
- 20 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 10 Apr 2023to 10 Jun 2024
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 25 years
- Men only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Study population: The study population will consist of elite male judokas aged 18 to 25 years who have a minimum of two years of continuous judo training experience and are actively competing at the national level. Participants will be recruited from local judo clubs and training centers. All individuals must be in good health, free from recent injuries, and capable of performing high-intensity strength and sport-specific exercises. The sample will represent a homogenous group of trained athletes, enabling a focused investigation of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols on judo-specific performance outcomes.
Who may be able to join
- Male judokas aged 18-25 years
- Minimum of 2 years of continuous judo training experience
- Active participation in national-level judo competitions
- Free from injury for at least 6 months prior to the study
- Able to perform high-intensity resistance and sport-specific exercises
- Willing to participate and provide informed consent
Who cannot join
- Current musculoskeletal injury or medical condition affecting performance
- History of surgery within the last 6 months
- Cardiovascular, respiratory, or neurological conditions contraindicating intense physical activity
- Use of medications that affect muscle performance or recovery
- Participation in other performance-enhancement or warm-up research studies during the study period
- Inability to follow study instructions or complete testing protocols
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Acute Effects of Moderate and Maximal Squat Loading
This study will investigate the acute effects of two squat-based post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols-moderate load (80% of 6RM) and maximal load (100% of 1RM)-on judo-specific performance in elite male judokas. A total of 20 national-level male judokas will participate in a randomized, counterbalanced protocol across a 3-week period. Each participant will complete standard and experimental warm-up sessions followed by the Special Judo Fitness Test. Outcome measures will include total throws, immediate and 1-minute post-exercise heart rates, and the performance index. The study aims to determine the optimal PAPE intensity for enhancing performance while minimizing fatigue in combat sport athletes.
Read the detailed description
This study will examine the acute effects of two different squat-based post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols on judo-specific performance in elite male judokas. The purpose is to identify an optimal loading strategy that enhances performance without inducing excessive fatigue, which is critical for pre-competition preparation in combat sports.
A total of 20 male judokas with at least two years of competitive experience at the national level will be recruited. Participants will undergo three different warm-up conditions in a randomized, counterbalanced order over a 3-week period:
A standard warm-up (SWU) based on typical judo routines
A moderate-load PAPE warm-up (80% of 6-repetition maximum)
A maximal-load PAPE warm-up (100% of 1-repetition maximum)
Each warm-up session will last approximately 25 minutes. After each warm-up, participants will perform the Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT), which assesses anaerobic capacity, throwing ability, and recovery. Outcome measures will include the number of total throws, immediate and 1-minute post-test heart rate, and the SJFT performance index.
It is expected that the moderate-load (80%) PAPE protocol will yield the greatest improvements in judo-specific performance, offering a better balance between muscle potentiation and fatigue than the maximal-load (100%) or standard warm-up conditions. These findings will inform practical warm-up strategies for combat sport athletes aiming to enhance performance immediately before competition.
- Conditions
- Healthy
- Being tested
- warm up
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
warm upOther
- Standard Warm-Up (SWU): This condition will involve a typical judo-specific warm-up protocol lasting approximately 25 minutes.
- Moderate-Load PAPE Warm-Up (80% of 6RM): This experimental warm-up condition will consist of the same initial exercises as the SWU, followed by the addition of a moderate-load squat-based PAPE protocol.
- Maximal-Load PAPE Warm-Up (100% of 1RM):
This condition will also begin with the same general and judo-specific exercises as the SWU, followed by a high-intensity PAPE protocol: 1-2 sets of a single repetition of back squats at 100% of the participant's 1-repetition maximum (1RM).
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Warm-Up (SWU): | This condition will involve a typical judo-specific warm-up protocol lasting approximately 25 minutes. It will include:
8-10 minutes of mobility and dynamic flexibility exercises focusing on major joints and muscle groups (e.g., hip circles, arm swings, and leg kicks) Receives: Other: warm up | |
| A moderate-load PAPE warm-up (80% of 6-repetition maximum) | This experimental warm-up condition will consist of the same initial exercises as the SWU, followed by the addition of a moderate-load squat-based PAPE protocol. The structure will include: Back squats performed at 80% of the participant's 6-repetition maximum (6RM)
3 sets of 3 repetitions, performed with maximal effort and proper form, under supervision
Rest intervals of 3-5 minutes between sets to allow partial recovery and facilitate potentiation. Receives: Other: warm up | |
| A maximal-load PAPE warm-up (100% of 1-repetition maximum) | This condition will also begin with the same general and judo-specific exercises as the SWU, followed by a high-intensity PAPE protocol:
Extended rest periods of 4-5 minutes between the final lift and performance testing to minimize fatigue effects The full warm-up will also be completed within a 25-minute session Receives: Other: warm up |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT).
The SJFT will be used to assess judo-specific performance through repeated throwing efforts within defined time intervals. The test consists of three periods of activity (15 seconds, 30 seconds, and 30 seconds) separated by 10-second rest intervals.
Measured: Immediately post-intervention on Day 1, Day 8, and Day 15 (across the 3-week study period)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted30 May 2025
- Study start10 Apr 2023
- Primary completion10 May 2024
- Study completion10 Jun 2024
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (1)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for HealthyStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Case crossover
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Enrolment
- 20 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Inonu University
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Monira Aldhahi, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06997783
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- PNU2
- Status last verified
- May 2025
- First submitted
- 21 May 2025
- Last updated
- 30 May 2025
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided
Publications
Aydin S, Eken O, Aldhahi MI. Acute effects of squat loading intensity on performance in competitive judo athletes. Sci Rep. 2026 Feb 16;16(1):7819. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-39312-x.
PubMed 41699078
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 30 May 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Acute Effects of Moderate and Maximal Squat Loading
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06997783
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- PNU2
- Conditions
- Healthy
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 20 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Inonu University
- Study start
- 10 Apr 2023 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 10 May 2024 (actual)
- Study completion
- 10 Jun 2024 (actual)
- First posted
- 30 May 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This study will investigate the acute effects of two squat-based post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols-moderate load (80% of 6RM) and maximal load (100% of 1RM)-on judo-specific performance in elite male judokas. A total of 20 national-level male judokas will participate in a randomized, counterbalanced protocol across a 3-week period. Each participant will complete standard and experimental warm-up sessions followed by the Special Judo Fitness Test. Outcome measures will include total throws, immediate and 1-minute post-exercise heart rates, and the performance index. The study aims to determine the optimal PAPE intensity for enhancing performance while minimizing fatigue in combat sport athletes.
Detailed description
This study will examine the acute effects of two different squat-based post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols on judo-specific performance in elite male judokas. The purpose is to identify an optimal loading strategy that enhances performance without inducing excessive fatigue, which is critical for pre-competition preparation in combat sports.
A total of 20 male judokas with at least two years of competitive experience at the national level will be recruited. Participants will undergo three different warm-up conditions in a randomized, counterbalanced order over a 3-week period:
A standard warm-up (SWU) based on typical judo routines
A moderate-load PAPE warm-up (80% of 6-repetition maximum)
A maximal-load PAPE warm-up (100% of 1-repetition maximum)
Each warm-up session will last approximately 25 minutes. After each warm-up, participants will perform the Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT), which assesses anaerobic capacity, throwing ability, and recovery. Outcome measures will include the number of total throws, immediate and 1-minute post-test heart rate, and the SJFT performance index.
It is expected that the moderate-load (80%) PAPE protocol will yield the greatest improvements in judo-specific performance, offering a better balance between muscle potentiation and fatigue than the maximal-load (100%) or standard warm-up conditions. These findings will inform practical warm-up strategies for combat sport athletes aiming to enhance performance immediately before competition.
Study design
- Observational model
- Case crossover
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Number of arms
- 3
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Warm-Up (SWU): | – | Other: warm upThis condition will involve a typical judo-specific warm-up protocol lasting approximately 25 minutes. It will include: 8-10 minutes of mobility and dynamic flexibility exercises focusing on major joints and muscle groups (e.g., hip circles, arm swings, and leg kicks) |
| A moderate-load PAPE warm-up (80% of 6-repetition maximum) | – | Other: warm upThis experimental warm-up condition will consist of the same initial exercises as the SWU, followed by the addition of a moderate-load squat-based PAPE protocol. The structure will include: Back squats performed at 80% of the participant's 6-repetition maximum (6RM) 3 sets of 3 repetitions, performed with maximal effort and proper form, under supervision Rest intervals of 3-5 minutes between sets to allow partial recovery and facilitate potentiation. |
| A maximal-load PAPE warm-up (100% of 1-repetition maximum) | – | Other: warm upThis condition will also begin with the same general and judo-specific exercises as the SWU, followed by a high-intensity PAPE protocol: Extended rest periods of 4-5 minutes between the final lift and performance testing to minimize fatigue effects The full warm-up will also be completed within a 25-minute session |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 25 years
- Sex
- Male only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
- Study population
- The study population will consist of elite male judokas aged 18 to 25 years who have a minimum of two years of continuous judo training experience and are actively competing at the national level. Participants will be recruited from local judo clubs and training centers. All individuals must be in good health, free from recent injuries, and capable of performing high-intensity strength and sport-specific exercises. The sample will represent a homogenous group of trained athletes, enabling a focused investigation of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) protocols on judo-specific performance outcomes.
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Male judokas aged 18-25 years
- Minimum of 2 years of continuous judo training experience
- Active participation in national-level judo competitions
- Free from injury for at least 6 months prior to the study
- Able to perform high-intensity resistance and sport-specific exercises
Key exclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Current musculoskeletal injury or medical condition affecting performance
- History of surgery within the last 6 months
- Cardiovascular, respiratory, or neurological conditions contraindicating intense physical activity
- Use of medications that affect muscle performance or recovery
- Participation in other performance-enhancement or warm-up research studies during the study period
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| warm up1. Standard Warm-Up (SWU): This condition will involve a typical judo-specific warm-up protocol lasting approximately 25 minutes. 2. Moderate-Load PAPE Warm-Up (80% of 6RM): This experimental warm-up condition will consist of the same initial exercises as the SWU, followed by the addition of a moderate-load squat-based PAPE protocol. 3. Maximal-Load PAPE Warm-Up (100% of 1RM): This condition will also begin with the same general and judo-specific exercises as the SWU, followed by a high-intensity PAPE protocol: 1-2 sets of a single repetition of back squats at 100% of the participant's 1-repetition maximum (1RM). | Other | A maximal-load PAPE warm-up (100% of 1-repetition maximum), A moderate-load PAPE warm-up (80% of 6-repetition maximum), Standard Warm-Up (SWU): |
Primary outcome
Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT).
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention on Day 1, Day 8, and Day 15 (across the 3-week study period)
The SJFT will be used to assess judo-specific performance through repeated throwing efforts within defined time intervals. The test consists of three periods of activity (15 seconds, 30 seconds, and 30 seconds) separated by 10-second rest intervals.
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 30 May 2025.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 41699078Aydin S, Eken O, Aldhahi MI. Acute effects of squat loading intensity on performance in competitive judo athletes. Sci Rep. 2026 Feb 16;16(1):7819. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-39312-x.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Healthy, run by Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 6 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 30 May 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Special Judo Fitness Test (SJFT). (time frame: Immediately post-intervention on Day 1, Day 8, and Day 15 (across the 3-week study period)). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06997783, which also lists 1 linked publication.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 30 May 2025.