Warm-Up Effects on Adolescent Goalkeepers' Performance

Acute Effects of Different Warm-Up Protocols on Motor Performance in Adolescent Football Goalkeepers: A Randomised Crossover Study

The purpose of this study is to examine the acute effects of different warm-up protocols on performance outcomes in adolescent male football goalkeepers. Specifically, it investigates the impact of aerobic running, static stretching, dynamic stretching, and movement preparation on flexibility, explosive power, and dynamic balance.

This randomized crossover study examined the acute effects of four 15-minute warm-up protocols-Aerobic Running (AR), Static Stretching (SS), Dynamic Stretching (DS), and Movement Preparation (MP)-on flexibility, explosive lower-limb power, and dynamic balance in 15 adolescent male football goalkeepers. Participants were licensed youth goalkeepers with consistent sleep, diet, and training routines. Warm-up order was randomized and both participants and administrators were blinded to the condition. Flexibility, power, and balance were assessed using the sit-and-reach test, standing long jump, and Y Balance Test, respectively, with the best of three trials recorded. Heart rate was monitored to maintain internal load at 60-75% of age-predicted maximum. All sessions were supervised by a certified sports scientist, and anthropometric data were collected prior to testing. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Biologically male football goalkeepers
• Aged 14-15 years
• Actively competing in youth leagues
• Minimum training experience of approximately 3-4 years
• Free from chronic diseases or musculoskeletal injuries that could affect physical performance
• Maintain regular sleep and dietary routines during the study period

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current injuries
• Chronic health conditions
• Any physical limitations that could interfere with safe participation in warm-up protocols or performance testing