The Effects of PNF Stretching on Anaerobic Power and Motor Performance in Adolescent Male Volleyball Players

The Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching Exercises on Anaerobic Power and Motor Performance in Adolescent Male Volleyball Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled study aimed to examine the effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching exercises on anaerobic power and motor performance in adolescent male volleyball players. Eighteen participants aged 15 to 17 years were randomly assigned to an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group performed PNF stretching exercises three times per week for six weeks, in addition to their regular volleyball training. The control group continued their standard volleyball training without PNF stretching. Outcome measures included anaerobic power, flexibility, balance, speed, push-up, and crunch tests. The study hypothesizes that PNF stretching will improve motor performance indicators in adolescent athletes.

This clinical trial investigates the effects of a six-week proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching intervention on motor performance in adolescent male volleyball players. A total of 18 participants with at least 6 months of volleyball training experience were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group (n=9) and the control group (n=9). The experimental group received PNF stretching exercises in addition to their routine training three times per week for six weeks, while the control group continued only with their routine training.

The main outcome measures were anaerobic power (Margaria-Kalamen Test), flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test), balance (Flamingo Balance Test), speed (20 m sprint), upper body strength (Push-up Test), and core strength (Crunch Test). Pre- and post-test evaluations were conducted. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on flexibility and functional performance development in adolescent athletes and aims to support evidence-based training practices in sports sciences.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male participants
• Aged between 15 and 17 years
• At least 2 years of volleyball training experience
• Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study
• No recent musculoskeletal injuries (in the last 6 months)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participants with any diagnosed neurological or cardiovascular disorder
• Current use of performance-enhancing drugs or supplements
• History of lower extremity surgery
• Inability to complete the training or testing sessions
• Failure to provide written informed consent