Healthy ParticipantsNMWU YBT CMJNCT07340021
Comparative Study of Effects of Neuromuscular Warmup vs Conventional Warmup in Recreational Gym Population
A study testing NM Warm-up and Conventional Warm-up in people with Healthy Participants, run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 2 sites in Pakistan.
Trial summary
Impaired balance or insufficient strength may increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries among recreational enthusiasts. Warm-up protocols are an essential component of exercise preparation, aiming to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury among physically active individuals. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 40 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Healthy Participants
- What is being tested?
- NM Warm-up and Conventional Warm-up
- Type of treatment
- Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 46 participants
- Where
- 2 sitesPakistan
- Study dates
- 14 Jan 2026to 15 Jun 2027
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Adults age ranging from 18 to 40 years
- No injury at the start of the study
- Willingness to attend all warmup sessions for 6 weeks
- Recreationally Active individuals who participates in exercise for ≥4 times per week
- Individuals who take part in Strength based training and perform closed kinematic chain exercises at least 2 times per week
Who cannot join
- Any known cardiovascular, systemic illness that might hinder exercises
- History of any injury or surgery in the past 6 months
- Diagnosed neurological, musculoskeletal disorders
- Participation in any competitive professional sports or athletic training
Trial locations and contacts
2 sites in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan2 sites, 2 recruiting
- Not yet recruiting
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
Lahore, Punjab Province, 54000
Shoaib Waqas, Phd, +923024552109, shoaib.waqas@ubas.edu.pk
- Recruiting
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
Lahore, Punjab Province, 54000
Shoaib Waqas, Phd, +923024552109, shoaib.waqas@ubas.edu.pk
About this study
Official title: Effects of Neuromuscular Warm-up Versus Conventional Warm-up Protocols on Dynamic Balance and Strength Among Recreational Gym Population
- Impaired balance or insufficient strength may increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries among recreational enthusiasts. Warm-up protocols are an essential component of exercise preparation, aiming to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury among physically active individuals.
- Neuromuscular warm-up protocols are designed to stimulate the sensorimotor system by integrating balance, coordination, strength, and proprioceptive exercises. These protocols enhance neuromuscular control, joint stability, and muscle activation, which are critical for dynamic movements performed during gym-based training and functional activities.
- Similarly, Conventional warm-up protocols consist of light aerobic activity and static or dynamic stretching. These protocols enhance blood flow and muscle flexibility.
- Dynamic balance refers to the ability to maintain postural control while performing movement tasks and is a key determinant of athletic performance and injury prevention.
- Strength is an essential component for functional performance and is commonly assessed through Counter jump movement tests.
- This study aims to compare the effects of a neuromuscular warm-up versus a conventional warm-up on dynamic balance and strength among recreational gym enthusiasts. The findings may help create a more effective warm-up strategy for improving performance in recreational enthusiasts.
Read the detailed description
Experimental Group (Neuromuscular Warm-up Protocol):
Participants assigned to the experimental group underwent a structured neuromuscular warm-up (NM-W) program before their routine gym training sessions. The intervention was conducted four times per week over a period of six weeks, with each warm-up session lasting approximately 10-12 minutes at a low to moderate intensity. The protocol began with a light aerobic phase, consisting of treadmill jogging at 50-60% of maximum heart rate for two minutes, followed by dynamic mobility exercises such as arm circles and leg swings. This was followed by a core activation and strengthening phase, which included front planks, side planks, and single-leg glute bridges aimed at enhancing trunk stability and proximal muscle control. The final phase focused on balance and plyometric activities, including single-leg balance with eyes closed, step-ups, BOSU mini squats, and diagonal hopping drills combined with medicine-ball interception gestures. This neuromuscular warm-up protocol was specifically designed to improve neuromuscular integration, enhance dynamic balance, and increase muscular strength prior to resistance-based training.
Control Group ( conventional warmup Protocol):
Participants allocated to the control group received a conventional (traditional) warm-up protocol prior to their routine workout sessions. The warm-up was performed four times per week for six weeks same as in experimental group, with each session lasting approximately 12 minutes, matching the frequency and duration of the experimental group. The conventional warm-up consisted of a general aerobic component aimed at increasing body temperature and heart rate, followed by dynamic mobility exercises. The aerobic phase included treadmill jogging at 50-60% of maximum heart rate for approximately five minutes, after which participants performed dynamic movements such as leg swings, dynamic hip circles, arm swings, high knees, and butt kicks. The overall intensity of the warm-up was maintained at a low to moderate level (RPE 4-5). This protocol was intended to enhance blood circulation, improve muscle flexibility, and prepare the musculoskeletal system for subsequent exercise, without targeting specific neuromuscular, balance, or plyometric training components.
- Conditions
- Healthy Participants
- Being tested
- NM Warm-up, Conventional Warm-up
- Keywords
- Gym-Goers, Neuromuscular Warm-up, Conventional Warm-up, Dynamic Balance, Strength, Recreational Gym Population
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
NM Warm-upBehavioural
The neuromuscular warm-up was performed four times per week for six weeks, with each session lasting approximately 10 to12 minutes at light to moderate intensity. The intervention consisted of single-leg balance exercises with reach tasks, bosu mini squats with controlled tempo, core stabilization exercises such as front and side planks, and agility-based movements including lateral shuffles and hops. Exercise difficulty was progressively increased by altering base of support, movement speed, and task complexity. The sequence was designed to improve motor control, balance reactions, and force production before the main workout. Dynamic balance and strength outcomes were assessed at baseline and after completion of the intervention.
Conventional Warm-upBehavioural
Participants in the control group completed the conventional warm-up four times per week for six weeks, with each session lasting about 10 to 12 minutes. The warm-up began with light aerobic activity, such as treadmill jogging or stationary cycling, to gently raise heart rate and body temperature. This was followed by dynamic mobility and stretching exercises, including leg swings, arm circles, hip rotations, , body-weight squats, and dynamic stretches for the hamstrings and calves also of upper body dynamic stretches . Overall, the conventional warm-up aimed to prepare the muscles and joints for exercise but did not specifically target neuromuscular activation, balance, or movement control.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Neuromuscular Warm-up | Experimental | Participants in the experimental group performed a neuromuscular warm-up program, prior to their training , designed to improve dynamic balance, strength via YBT and vertical jump along with overall neuromuscular control before their regular gym workouts. This warm-up focused on coordinated, functional movements that challenge postural stability and promote efficient muscle activation. The program included progressive balance tasks, controlled strength exercises, agility drills, and dynamic stability activities aimed at activating the neuromuscular system in a purposeful manner. slight progression was made every week All sessions were supervised to ensure correct technique, appropriate progression and the participant safety throughout the intervention period Receives: Behavioral: NM Warm-up |
| Conventional Warm-up | Active comparator | Participants in the control group performed a traditional warm-up routine that was different from the neuromuscular warm-up used in the experimental group. This approach mainly focused on getting the body ready for exercise by increasing heart rate and loosening the muscles, rather than improving neuromuscular control. Unlike the neuromuscular warm-up, this protocol did not include balance-challenging exercises, reactive movements, or tasks that required high levels of body awareness. The movements were simple and repetitive, with no added progression in difficulty, and were intended only to prepare participants physically before starting their regular gym workout. Receives: Behavioral: Conventional Warm-up |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Dynamic Balance
Dynamic balance will be measured using the Y-Balance Test (YBT).
The Y-Balance Test assesses dynamic postural control by measuring reach distance in three directions while maintaining single-leg stance. The test has demonstrated good to excellent reliability with an internal consistency of Cronbach's alpha (α) of approximately 0.91.
Y-Balance Test Directions:
- Anterior Reach: ______ cm
- Posteromedial Reach: ______ cm
- Posterolateral Reach: ______ cm Composite Y-Balance Score: ______ % The composite score will be calculated by normalizing reach distances to limb length.
Measured: 8 weeks
Strength
Lower limb strength will be measured using the Countermovement Jump (CMJ) Test. The CMJ test evaluates explosive lower extremity strength by measuring vertical jump height. The MyJump2 smartphone application has demonstrated excellent internal consistency, with a reported Cronbach's alpha (α) of approximately 0.99,This indicates high level of reliability for measuring counter movement jump(CMJ height)
Countermovement Jump Variables:
Jump Height: ______ cm
Measured: 8 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted14 Jan 2026
- Study start14 Jan 2026
- Primary completion15 Jun 2027 (estimated)
- Study completion15 Jun 2027 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Healthy ParticipantsStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 46 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Prof. Dr. Shoaib Waqas, Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
- Investigators
- Shoaib Waqas, Phd, Study chair, Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesMuhammad Ibrahim, DPT, Principal investigator, Lahore College of Physical TherapyMuhammad Zoraiz Khan, DPT, Principal investigator, Lahore College of Physical TherapyDua Ali Memon, DPT, Principal investigator, Lahore College of Physical Therapy
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07340021
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- DPT/ERB/42
- Other IDs
- U1111-1333-1918
- Acronym
- NMWU YBT CMJ
- Status last verified
- Oct 2026
- First submitted
- 5 Jan 2026
- Last updated
- 26 Oct 2026
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes: After the Publication
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 26 Oct 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Neuromuscular Warm-up Versus Conventional Warm-up Protocols on Dynamic Balance and Strength Among Recreational Gym Population
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07340021
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- NMWU YBT CMJ / DPT/ERB/42
- Conditions
- Healthy Participants
- Keywords
- Gym-Goers, Neuromuscular Warm-up, Conventional Warm-up, Dynamic Balance, Strength, Recreational Gym Population
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 46 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 14 Jan 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 15 Jun 2027 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 15 Jun 2027 (estimated)
- First posted
- 14 Jan 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
- Impaired balance or insufficient strength may increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries among recreational enthusiasts. Warm-up protocols are an essential component of exercise preparation, aiming to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury among physically active individuals.
- Neuromuscular warm-up protocols are designed to stimulate the sensorimotor system by integrating balance, coordination, strength, and proprioceptive exercises. These protocols enhance neuromuscular control, joint stability, and muscle activation, which are critical for dynamic movements performed during gym-based training and functional activities.
- Similarly, Conventional warm-up protocols consist of light aerobic activity and static or dynamic stretching. These protocols enhance blood flow and muscle flexibility.
- Dynamic balance refers to the ability to maintain postural control while performing movement tasks and is a key determinant of athletic performance and injury prevention.
- Strength is an essential component for functional performance and is commonly assessed through Counter jump movement tests.
- This study aims to compare the effects of a neuromuscular warm-up versus a conventional warm-up on dynamic balance and strength among recreational gym enthusiasts. The findings may help create a more effective warm-up strategy for improving performance in recreational enthusiasts.
Detailed description
Experimental Group (Neuromuscular Warm-up Protocol):
Participants assigned to the experimental group underwent a structured neuromuscular warm-up (NM-W) program before their routine gym training sessions. The intervention was conducted four times per week over a period of six weeks, with each warm-up session lasting approximately 10-12 minutes at a low to moderate intensity. The protocol began with a light aerobic phase, consisting of treadmill jogging at 50-60% of maximum heart rate for two minutes, followed by dynamic mobility exercises such as arm circles and leg swings. This was followed by a core activation and strengthening phase, which included front planks, side planks, and single-leg glute bridges aimed at enhancing trunk stability and proximal muscle control. The final phase focused on balance and plyometric activities, including single-leg balance with eyes closed, step-ups, BOSU mini squats, and diagonal hopping drills combined with medicine-ball interception gestures. This neuromuscular warm-up protocol was specifically designed to improve neuromuscular integration, enhance dynamic balance, and increase muscular strength prior to resistance-based training.
Control Group ( conventional warmup Protocol):
Participants allocated to the control group received a conventional (traditional) warm-up protocol prior to their routine workout sessions. The warm-up was performed four times per week for six weeks same as in experimental group, with each session lasting approximately 12 minutes, matching the frequency and duration of the experimental group. The conventional warm-up consisted of a general aerobic component aimed at increasing body temperature and heart rate, followed by dynamic mobility exercises. The aerobic phase included treadmill jogging at 50-60% of maximum heart rate for approximately five minutes, after which participants performed dynamic movements such as leg swings, dynamic hip circles, arm swings, high knees, and butt kicks. The overall intensity of the warm-up was maintained at a low to moderate level (RPE 4-5). This protocol was intended to enhance blood circulation, improve muscle flexibility, and prepare the musculoskeletal system for subsequent exercise, without targeting specific neuromuscular, balance, or plyometric training components.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind (participant, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Neuromuscular Warm-up | Experimental | Behavioral: NM Warm-upParticipants in the experimental group performed a neuromuscular warm-up program, prior to their training , designed to improve dynamic balance, strength via YBT and vertical jump along with overall neuromuscular control before their regular gym workouts. This warm-up focused on coordinated, functional movements that challenge postural stability and promote efficient muscle activation. The program included progressive balance tasks, controlled strength exercises, agility drills, and dynamic stability activities aimed at activating the neuromuscular system in a purposeful manner. slight progression was made every week All sessions were supervised to ensure correct technique, appropriate progression and the participant safety throughout the intervention period |
| Conventional Warm-up | Active comparator | Behavioral: Conventional Warm-upParticipants in the control group performed a traditional warm-up routine that was different from the neuromuscular warm-up used in the experimental group. This approach mainly focused on getting the body ready for exercise by increasing heart rate and loosening the muscles, rather than improving neuromuscular control. Unlike the neuromuscular warm-up, this protocol did not include balance-challenging exercises, reactive movements, or tasks that required high levels of body awareness. The movements were simple and repetitive, with no added progression in difficulty, and were intended only to prepare participants physically before starting their regular gym workout. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 40 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Adults age ranging from 18 to 40 years
- No injury at the start of the study
- Willingness to attend all warmup sessions for 6 weeks
- Recreationally Active individuals who participates in exercise for ≥4 times per week
- Individuals who take part in Strength based training and perform closed kinematic chain exercises at least 2 times per week
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Any known cardiovascular, systemic illness that might hinder exercises
- History of any injury or surgery in the past 6 months
- Diagnosed neurological, musculoskeletal disorders
- Participation in any competitive professional sports or athletic training
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| NM Warm-upThe neuromuscular warm-up was performed four times per week for six weeks, with each session lasting approximately 10 to12 minutes at light to moderate intensity. The intervention consisted of single-leg balance exercises with reach tasks, bosu mini squats with controlled tempo, core stabilization exercises such as front and side planks, and agility-based movements including lateral shuffles and hops. Exercise difficulty was progressively increased by altering base of support, movement speed, and task complexity. The sequence was designed to improve motor control, balance reactions, and force production before the main workout. Dynamic balance and strength outcomes were assessed at baseline and after completion of the intervention. | Behavioural | Neuromuscular Warm-up |
| Conventional Warm-upParticipants in the control group completed the conventional warm-up four times per week for six weeks, with each session lasting about 10 to 12 minutes. The warm-up began with light aerobic activity, such as treadmill jogging or stationary cycling, to gently raise heart rate and body temperature. This was followed by dynamic mobility and stretching exercises, including leg swings, arm circles, hip rotations, , body-weight squats, and dynamic stretches for the hamstrings and calves also of upper body dynamic stretches . Overall, the conventional warm-up aimed to prepare the muscles and joints for exercise but did not specifically target neuromuscular activation, balance, or movement control. | Behavioural | Conventional Warm-up |
Primary outcome
Dynamic Balance
Time frame: 8 weeks
Dynamic balance will be measured using the Y-Balance Test (YBT). The Y-Balance Test assesses dynamic postural control by measuring reach distance in three directions while maintaining single-leg stance. The test has demonstrated good to excellent reliability with an internal consistency of Cronbach's alpha (α) of approximately 0.91. Y-Balance Test Directions: 1. Anterior Reach: ______ cm 2. Posteromedial Reach: ______ cm 3. Posterolateral Reach: ______ cm Composite Y-Balance Score: ______ % The composite score will be calculated by normalizing reach distances to limb length.
Strength
Time frame: 8 weeks
Lower limb strength will be measured using the Countermovement Jump (CMJ) Test. The CMJ test evaluates explosive lower extremity strength by measuring vertical jump height. The MyJump2 smartphone application has demonstrated excellent internal consistency, with a reported Cronbach's alpha (α) of approximately 0.99,This indicates high level of reliability for measuring counter movement jump(CMJ height) Countermovement Jump Variables: Jump Height: ______ cm
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 26 Oct 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes. After the Publication
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Shoaib Waqas, Phd study chair
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
Muhammad Ibrahim, DPT principal investigator
Lahore College of Physical Therapy
Muhammad Zoraiz Khan, DPT principal investigator
Lahore College of Physical Therapy
2 sites in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing NM Warm-up and Conventional Warm-up in people with Healthy Participants, run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 2 sites in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 5 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 26 Oct 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 2 sites in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Shoaib Waqas, Phd (+923024552109, shoaib.waqas@ubas.edu.pk), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Dynamic Balance (time frame: 8 weeks). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 26 Oct 2026.