The Effects of Scapular Stabilization Exercises in Traditional Archery Athletes

The Effects of Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Shooting Accuracy and Upper Extremity Performance in Traditional Archery Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of an 8-week scapular stabilization exercise program on shooting accuracy and upper extremity performance in athletes engaged in traditional archery. Thirty licensed archers aged between 15 and 35, with at least 2 years of experience, will be randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group will receive scapular stabilization exercises in addition to their regular training, while the control group will continue their usual training routine. Pre- and post-intervention evaluations will assess upper extremity strength, stability, proprioception, and shooting performance.

This study is a double-blind randomized controlled trial designed to investigate the effectiveness of scapular stabilization exercises on shooting performance and upper extremity functional capacity in athletes engaged in traditional archery. Traditional archery is a sport that places significant demands on shoulder girdle stability, particularly during the aiming and release phases. Improper scapular positioning and muscular imbalances may negatively impact accuracy and increase the risk of shoulder injuries over time.

Participants will be stratified by age and gender and randomly allocated into two groups: an intervention group performing a standardized scapular stabilization program in addition to regular training, and a control group continuing with regular training alone. The exercise program targets key scapular stabilizers, including the serratus anterior and lower trapezius, with the goal of improving scapular alignment, motor control, and muscular endurance. Exercise progression will be tailored to individual response and load tolerance.

Assessments will include validated performance and functional tests to evaluate changes in upper extremity strength, endurance, proprioception, and shooting accuracy. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will be conducted by blinded evaluators to minimize measurement bias. The study protocol has been designed to ensure methodological rigor, with strict adherence to randomization, blinding, and standardized testing procedures.

This research aims to fill a gap in the literature concerning shoulder health and performance in traditional archery athletes and may provide valuable guidance for clinicians and coaches involved in the training and rehabilitation of overhead sport athletes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 15 to 35 years

Licensed traditional archers with at least 2 years of experience

Regular participation in training programs

Willingness to participate and provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of upper extremity orthopedic surgery in the past year

Existing musculoskeletal disorders in the upper extremity

Presence of any neurological disease