Effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization and Feldenkrais in Male Cricket Players

Comparative Effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization and Feldenkrais Method on Agility, Balance and Endurance in Male Cricket Players

In the dynamic and physically demanding sport of cricket, players require not only skill but also high levels of agility, balance, and endurance to perform optimally. Traditional training methods may not always address the specific neuromuscular and movement control needs essential for peak performance. Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) and Feldenkrais Method both focuses on body awareness and functional movement, helping athletes increase flexibility, coordination, and adaptability. Understanding how these methods impact athletic performance can aid in developing specialized training strategies for cricket players to optimize overall physical readiness. This study examines the comparative effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) and the Feldenkrais Method on agility, balance, and endurance in male cricket players.

This single-blinded, randomized clinical trial will recruit 42 male cricket players aged 18-30 from the Tando Muhammad Khan Cricket Club in Pakistan, over a 10-month period post-synopsis approval. Participants will be divided into two groups: Group A performing dynamic neuromuscular stabilization exercises, and Group B using the Feldenkrais method. Convenience sampling will select players with at least one year of experience and regular training, excluding those with recent injuries, surgeries, or lower extremity deformities. Agility, balance, and endurance will be assessed using the T-test, Star Excursion Balance Test, and Plank Test, respectively. Data will be analyzed through SPSS version 26.

The study's objective is to comparative effects of dynamic neuromuscular stabilization exercise and the Feldenkrais method on agility, balance and endurance in male cricket players

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male player age between 18 and 30 years' old.
• Players with at least 1 years cricket experience.
• Players who engage in at least 3 cricket training sessions per week.
• Players who have not participated in dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) or Feldenkrais training within the past 6 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Athletes using foot orthoses
• Any lower limb muscle injury or trauma in the past 6 months
• Had undergone lower limb surgery in the past 1 year
• Had lower extremity deformities: pes cavus, pes equinus, hallux valgus.
• Had a sign of diagnosis neurological deficit over the lower extremities.