THE EFFECT OF A BREATHING AND PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION PROGRAM

THE EFFECT OF A BREATHING AND PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION PROGRAM ON SLEEP QUALITY AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL_BEING IN UNIVERSITY ATHLETES: A NON- RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED INTERVENTION STUDY

This non-randomized controlled study evaluates a 10-week breathing and myofascial release program in university athletes. The intervention group receives structured training, while the control group receives only an informational brochure.

This study is designed as an experimental intervention trial. The intervention group will consist of players from the Marmara University American Football Team, while the control group will include players from the Boğaziçi University American Football Team. The intervention will be conducted over a 10-week period and will include a total of eight sessions.

The intervention program will comprise diaphragmatic breathing techniques, including box breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, deep breathing, and vagal stimulation, as well as self-myofascial release techniques applied using a foam roller. The program has been developed through a multidisciplinary collaboration involving a physiotherapist, a specialist physician, and a coach. Adherence to the exercise program will be monitored using structured exercise diaries.

The control group will receive only an informational brochure describing the content of the training program, without any structured practical training.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being between the ages of 18 and 24
• Being male
• Currently actively participating in an American football team
• Volunteering to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Use of antiepileptic, antipsychotic, antidepressant, hormonal, or hypnotic medications Not volunteering to participate in the study