Spinal Manipulation and Neuromuscular Performance on Amateur Cyclists

Acute Effects of Spinal Manipulation on the Neuromuscular Performance of Amateur Cyclists: Pilot Study

The present study aims to assess the effects of spinal manipulation therapy on neuromuscular performance.

The present study will follow a parallel, pre-post design. The aim will be to determine the acute effects of spinal manipulation therapy (SMT) on different neuromuscular properties of recreational cyclists. Specifically, the investigators will measure the maximum force production capacity and muscle activation of the knee extensors concomitantly during a maximal voluntary contraction, as well as the maximum and mean power attained during a Wingate cycling test (i.e., 30 seconds 'all out'). Participants will undergo the tests on two different occasions separated by at least 48 hours and a maximum of 2 weeks. The same tests will be conducted in both testing sessions, but participants will be randomly assigned into two groups (sham or actual SMT) immediately before the second testing session.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Will be recruited from three different local triathlon and cycling clubs.
• Will have to cycle at least 4 hours per week during the preceding 3 months, and to have a cycling experience greater than 2 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having suffered an injury in the month before the study that precluded regular exercise practice
• Having suffered any type of spine injury before the study
• Having previously received Spinal Manipulation Therapy