AthletesNCT07240597
Acute Effects of Different Warm-Up Protocols in Competitive Young Swimmers
A study testing Squats with resistance band, Vertical jump after dropping from a box and Combination BS + DJ in people with Athletes and Post Activation Potentiation, run by University of Palermo at 1 site in Italy.
Trial summary
Several warm-up strategies are commonly employed by athletes to optimize athletic performance and minimize the risk of injury. Recently, Post-Activation Performance Enhancement (PAPE) has been demonstrated to be effective in improving athletic performance. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 11 to 18 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Athletes, Post Activation Potentiation, Countermovement Jump
- What is being tested?
- Squats with resistance band, Vertical jump after dropping from a box and Combination BS + DJ
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 15 participants
- Where
- 1 siteItaly
- Study dates
- 2 Dec 2025to Feb 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
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 11 to 18 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Child, Adult
Who may be able to join
- Active participation in competitive training programs (at least 10 hours per week), at least one year of experience in competitions organized by the Italian Swimming Federation, and no recent injuries.
- Experience of resistance training for at least 6 months
Who cannot join
- Irregular training participation
- History of injuries in the 6 months prior to the study
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Italy1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
A.S.D. Swim Power
Bagheria, Palermo, 90011
Di Salvo Daniele, +39 091963710, swimpowerbagheria@hotmail.it
About this study
Official title: Acute Effects of Different Potentiation Protocols During Warm-Up in Competitive Young Swimmers: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Several warm-up strategies are commonly employed by athletes to optimize athletic performance and minimize the risk of injury. Recently, Post-Activation Performance Enhancement (PAPE) has been demonstrated to be effective in improving athletic performance. Nevertheless, the difference with the general warm-up is still unclear and poorly studied. Conventionally, short-term performance improvements achieved after brief periods of maximal activity have been attributed to PAP, a muscle memory mechanism that generates involuntary and short-lived effects (~28 seconds). This condition appears to be activated only by a history of localized maximal contractions. In the literature, various conditioning protocols with differing durations and intensities have been explored, often finding conflicting results in terms of athletic performance. In swimming, few PAPE warm-up protocols outside the pool have been studied, despite their potential usefulness considering the waiting times before competitions.
Therefore, this study explores the effects of three different warm-up protocols in young swimmers. Specifically, different exercise protocols will be included in the athletes' usual warm-up routine, aimed at improving athletic performance through PAPE effects. In line with existing literature, the performance parameters examined are the countermovement jump (CMJ) and the times recorded for covering race distances ( 25 m, 50 m, 100 m). In addition, skin temperature, heart rate (HR), muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2), and perceived exertion (RPE) are also measured after the protocols to investigate possible relationships with performance measures. Nevertheless, the primary aim of this study is to compare different warm-up protocols in young swimmers to maximize their athletic performance.
Read the detailed description
All outcome data will be expressed as mean ± standard deviation. The first warm-up section for all athletes will take place in the pool. Subsequently, baseline assessments (T0) will be conducted. Through a randomized study design, each participant will perform three plyometric protocols (squats with elastic bands, box jumps, or a combination of both).
To examine differences in the main outcomes, a repeated-measures ANOVA (4 conditions x 5 time points) will be conducted. When a significant condition × time interaction is detected, post hoc analyses to determine specific between and within-group differences. Effect sizes will be reported as partial eta squared (η²p). Statistical significance will be set at p < 0.05 for all analyses
- Being tested
- Squats with resistance band, Vertical jump after dropping from a box, Combination BS + DJ
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Squats with resistance bandOther
The elastic band squat protocol consisted of four sets of four repetitions with two minutes of recovery between sets (estimated total time: 9 minutes). Participants in a standing position should take one of the four elastic resistance bands (GymBeam), anchor it under their feet, and under each shoulder.
Vertical jump after dropping from a boxOther
A box for plyometric training (Yes4All) will be used in its 45 cm height section. The protocol consists of three sets of four repetitions. Fifteen seconds of recovery time will be allowed to reposition above the box, and three minutes of recovery time between sets (estimated total time: 10 minutes). Participants will be encouraged to reach maximum height with each jump, without bending their knees during the flight phase.
Combination BS + DJOther
A combination of squats with an elastic band and vertical plyometric jump after dropping from a box. The protocols are the same as those described in the other interventions (total estimated time: 19 minutes).
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Band Squats (BS) | Experimental | The band squats protocol consists of four sets of four repetitions with two minutes of recovery between sets. Four elastic bands of different resistance will be tested for each participant, and the correct band will be used. During the protocol, subjects will stop at the same depth as a swimming start, with a knee angle between 135 and 145°. All subjects will receive verbal encouragement during the performance in the same way. Receives: Other: Squats with resistance band |
| Drop Jump (DJ) | Experimental | The drop jump protocol consists of three sets of five repetitions of jumping after falling from a 45 cm box, with a fifteen-second break to reposition over the box and three minutes of recovery between sets. Receives: Other: Vertical jump after dropping from a box |
| Band Squats (BS) + Drop Jump (DJ) | Experimental | A combination of the band squats and the drop jumps Receives: Other: Combination BS + DJ |
| Control Group (CG) | No intervention | Control Group |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Counter Movement Jump (CMJ)
Initially, the athlete stands upright on a flat surface or force platform, feet shoulder-width apart, hands on hips (to eliminate arm swing). Without a pause, the athlete performs a quick downward movement (countermovement) by bending the knees and hips, then immediately jumps vertically as high as possible. The athlete lands in an upright position on the same spot, trying to absorb the impact with knees slightly bent. Jump height and flight time is recorded using an optical system, Optojump™ system(Microgate, Bolzano, Italy) connected to a personal computer with dedicated software(OptojumpTM Next software). The system consists of two optical bars, a receiver and a transmitter, positioned 1m apart. The bars identify ground contact time(with a precision of 1ms) and then convert non-contact time into cm. Based on recommendations on optimal jump height (20 to 60cm).
Measured: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Time Swimming Trials
In a second moment, after establishing the best warm-up protocol (from among those proposed) with the best recovery (derived from the CMJ height with the time ratio) for each individual, the 25, 50, and 100 m measurements will be evaluated in the pool. This will take place at a later stage in a 25 m pool. The first part of the warm-up will be the same for all subjects, while the second part will be personalized, based on their Post Activation Performance Enhancement.
Measured: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0) and after the individual time of recovery resulting from the height of the CMJ (T1)
Secondary outcomes (4)
Skin Temperature
The FLIR Foedge thermal imaging camera will be used to capture high-resolution thermal images of the target muscle area under controlled environmental conditions. The thermal imaging camera will be positioned approximately 0.5 meters from the subject's skin surface, with a fixed focal length lens to ensure sharp images. The room will be continuously monitored for temperature and humidity, minimizing external thermal influences. Ambient lighting will be kept low to avoid thermal interference from light sources. The thermal imaging camera will be calibrated before each session, connected to the same smartphone, and images will be captured at a frequency of 30 Hz to monitor temperature changes in real-time before and after muscle activity.
Measured: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Heart Rate (HR)
Heart rate (HR) will be measured with a Polar H10 chest strap sensor, a device known to give accurate results. To prepare, participants were asked not to drink coffee or alcohol, avoid hard exercise for 24 hours, and keep their normal sleep routine. The tests will always be done at the same time of day in every condition to avoid daily rhythm effects. The average HR over two minutes of recording will be recorded. The chest strap will be placed just below the chest bone and secured around the chest. Once the signal was ready, data will sent automatically to a mobile app (Elite HRV). All data will be later analyzed with special software (Kubios HRV).
Measured: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Muscle Oxygen Saturation (SmO2)
The Moxy oxygen sensor will be positioned on the vastus lateralis portion of the quadriceps muscle to monitor muscle oxygenation dynamics before, during and after exercise. The probe will be securely attached using the appropriate elastic band to minimize motion artifact and oriented parallel to the muscle fibers. Data acquisition will performed at a sampling rate of 10 Hz, capturing relative changes in muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) and total hemoglobin concentration. The site will be carefully cleaned and shaved when necessary to ensure optimal sensor contact. This setup allows for real-time, non-invasive assessment of local muscle oxygen utilization and hemodynamics, which is useful for evaluating muscular fatigue and metabolic responses.
Measured: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE)
The Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale will be employed to assess participants' subjective perception of exercise intensity during the protocol. The Borg Scale will be used following the pool warm-up, before each testing session, after each testing session, and at study conclusion.
Measured: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted21 Nov 2025
- Study start2 Dec 2025 (estimated)
- Primary completionJan 2026 (estimated)
- Study completionFeb 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for AthletesStudies 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
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Crossover
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 15 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- University of Palermo
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Giacomo Belmonte, University of Palermo
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07240597
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 62141-2025-2
- Other IDs
- 311/2025
- Status last verified
- Nov 2025
- First submitted
- 16 Nov 2025
- Last updated
- 21 Nov 2025
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 21 Nov 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Acute Effects of Different Potentiation Protocols During Warm-Up in Competitive Young Swimmers: A Randomized Crossover Trial
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07240597
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 62141-2025-2
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 15 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- University of PalermoUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 2 Dec 2025 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- Jan 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- Feb 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 21 Nov 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.
Several warm-up strategies are commonly employed by athletes to optimize athletic performance and minimize the risk of injury. Recently, Post-Activation Performance Enhancement (PAPE) has been demonstrated to be effective in improving athletic performance. Nevertheless, the difference with the general warm-up is still unclear and poorly studied. Conventionally, short-term performance improvements achieved after brief periods of maximal activity have been attributed to PAP, a muscle memory mechanism that generates involuntary and short-lived effects (~28 seconds). This condition appears to be activated only by a history of localized maximal contractions. In the literature, various conditioning protocols with differing durations and intensities have been explored, often finding conflicting results in terms of athletic performance. In swimming, few PAPE warm-up protocols outside the pool have been studied, despite their potential usefulness considering the waiting times before competitions.
Therefore, this study explores the effects of three different warm-up protocols in young swimmers. Specifically, different exercise protocols will be included in the athletes' usual warm-up routine, aimed at improving athletic performance through PAPE effects. In line with existing literature, the performance parameters examined are the countermovement jump (CMJ) and the times recorded for covering race distances ( 25 m, 50 m, 100 m). In addition, skin temperature, heart rate (HR), muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2), and perceived exertion (RPE) are also measured after the protocols to investigate possible relationships with performance measures. Nevertheless, the primary aim of this study is to compare different warm-up protocols in young swimmers to maximize their athletic performance.
Detailed description
All outcome data will be expressed as mean ± standard deviation. The first warm-up section for all athletes will take place in the pool. Subsequently, baseline assessments (T0) will be conducted. Through a randomized study design, each participant will perform three plyometric protocols (squats with elastic bands, box jumps, or a combination of both).
To examine differences in the main outcomes, a repeated-measures ANOVA (4 conditions x 5 time points) will be conducted. When a significant condition × time interaction is detected, post hoc analyses to determine specific between and within-group differences. Effect sizes will be reported as partial eta squared (η²p). Statistical significance will be set at p < 0.05 for all analyses
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Crossover
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 4
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Band Squats (BS) | Experimental | Other: Squats with resistance bandThe band squats protocol consists of four sets of four repetitions with two minutes of recovery between sets. Four elastic bands of different resistance will be tested for each participant, and the correct band will be used. During the protocol, subjects will stop at the same depth as a swimming start, with a knee angle between 135 and 145°. All subjects will receive verbal encouragement during the performance in the same way. |
| Drop Jump (DJ) | Experimental | Other: Vertical jump after dropping from a boxThe drop jump protocol consists of three sets of five repetitions of jumping after falling from a 45 cm box, with a fifteen-second break to reposition over the box and three minutes of recovery between sets. |
| Band Squats (BS) + Drop Jump (DJ) | Experimental | Other: Combination BS + DJA combination of the band squats and the drop jumps |
| Control Group (CG) | No intervention | –Control Group |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 11 to 18 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Child, Adult
Key inclusion criteria (2 listed)
- Active participation in competitive training programs (at least 10 hours per week), at least one year of experience in competitions organized by the Italian Swimming Federation, and no recent injuries.
- Experience of resistance training for at least 6 months
Key exclusion criteria (2 listed)
- Irregular training participation
- History of injuries in the 6 months prior to the study
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Squats with resistance bandThe elastic band squat protocol consisted of four sets of four repetitions with two minutes of recovery between sets (estimated total time: 9 minutes). Participants in a standing position should take one of the four elastic resistance bands (GymBeam), anchor it under their feet, and under each shoulder. | Other | Band Squats (BS) |
| Vertical jump after dropping from a boxA box for plyometric training (Yes4All) will be used in its 45 cm height section. The protocol consists of three sets of four repetitions. Fifteen seconds of recovery time will be allowed to reposition above the box, and three minutes of recovery time between sets (estimated total time: 10 minutes). Participants will be encouraged to reach maximum height with each jump, without bending their knees during the flight phase. | Other | Drop Jump (DJ) |
| Combination BS + DJA combination of squats with an elastic band and vertical plyometric jump after dropping from a box. The protocols are the same as those described in the other interventions (total estimated time: 19 minutes). | Other | Band Squats (BS) + Drop Jump (DJ) |
Primary outcome
Counter Movement Jump (CMJ)
Time frame: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Initially, the athlete stands upright on a flat surface or force platform, feet shoulder-width apart, hands on hips (to eliminate arm swing). Without a pause, the athlete performs a quick downward movement (countermovement) by bending the knees and hips, then immediately jumps vertically as high as possible. The athlete lands in an upright position on the same spot, trying to absorb the impact with knees slightly bent. Jump height and flight time is recorded using an optical system, Optojump™ system(Microgate, Bolzano, Italy) connected to a personal computer with dedicated software(OptojumpTM Next software). The system consists of two optical bars, a receiver and a transmitter, positioned 1m apart. The bars identify ground contact time(with a precision of 1ms) and then convert non-contact time into cm. Based on recommendations on optimal jump height (20 to 60cm).
Time Swimming Trials
Time frame: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0) and after the individual time of recovery resulting from the height of the CMJ (T1)
In a second moment, after establishing the best warm-up protocol (from among those proposed) with the best recovery (derived from the CMJ height with the time ratio) for each individual, the 25, 50, and 100 m measurements will be evaluated in the pool. This will take place at a later stage in a 25 m pool. The first part of the warm-up will be the same for all subjects, while the second part will be personalized, based on their Post Activation Performance Enhancement.
4 secondary outcomes
Skin Temperature
Time frame: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Heart Rate (HR)
Time frame: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Muscle Oxygen Saturation (SmO2)
Time frame: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE)
Time frame: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 21 Nov 2025.
Related trials for Athletes
Not yet recruitingObservational study
Isokinetic Knee Strength, Bilateral Muscle Balance, and Anaerobic Performance in Adolescent Athletes
Isokinetic Knee Strength, Hamstring-to-Quadriceps Strength Ratio
Recruiting
Feasibility of a Digital Self-help Program for Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (HEAL-FHA Pilot)
Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea
Recruiting
Trained vs. Untrained: Lower Extremity Pressure Changes
Trained Athletes, Untrained
Recruiting
Recovery After Fatigue in Young Athletes: Comparison Between TECAR Therapy and Cycle Ergometer"
Muscle Fatigue, Healthy Adult
Not yet recruiting
PLYOMETRIC TRAINING VERSUS CALISTHENIC TECHNIQUE FOR IMPROVING JUMP PERFORMANCE AND PATELLOFEMORAL FUNCTION IN KARATE ATHLETES
Jump Performance, Patellofemoral Joint
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.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Squats with resistance band, Vertical jump after dropping from a box and Combination BS + DJ in people with Athletes and Post Activation Potentiation, run by University of Palermo at 1 site in Italy.
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 2 inclusion and 2 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: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 21 Nov 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 Italy. 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?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Each site lists its own contact: choose the nearest one under Trial locations. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Counter Movement Jump (CMJ) (time frame: Before the start of the investigated warm-up phase (baseline, T0), 15 seconds after the protocols (T1), 3 minutes after the protocols (T2), 6 minutes after the protocols (T3), 9 minutes after the protocols (T4), 12 minutes after the protocols (T5)). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
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 21 Nov 2025.