Neuro-Athletic Training in Football

Optimizing Elite Football Performance Through Neuro-Athletic Training: A Parallel-Group Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of an 8-week neuro-athletic training (NAT) program in enhancing sport-specific skills and physical capacities in elite male football players aged 18-23 years. Participants were randomly assigned to a NAT intervention group or a control group that maintained standard training. The NAT program involved oculomotor, vestibular, and proprioceptive drills. Primary outcomes include passing and shooting accuracy; secondary outcomes include flexibility and isokinetic knee strength.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male football players aged 18-23 years
• Active in the Turkish Regional Amateur League (2023-2024 season)
• Minimum of 5 years of uninterrupted football training experience
• No known neuromuscular or visual impairments
• Participation in at least four football training sessions per week
• Willingness and ability to participate in all assessments and training sessions
• Provision of written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of orthopedic or neurological surgery within the past year
• Acute or chronic musculoskeletal injuries preventing full participation
• Uncorrected visual impairment
• Use of medications affecting neuromuscular performance or coordination
• Previous or concurrent involvement in structured neuromuscular or neuro-athletic training programs
• Irregular attendance to training sessions (>20% missed)
• Any condition precluding safe participation, as determined by medical staff