Clinical Research Directory

HME Amino Acid Supplementation for Strength, Performance, and Recovery in Trained Adult Males

This pilot randomized controlled trial evaluates HME (Human Muscle Equivalent), a free-form amino acid supplement formulated to match the amino acid composition of human skeletal muscle, taken at its Health Canada licensed dose (3 g powder plus one 50 mg slow-release beta-alanine capsule daily). Trained adult males (competitive athletes or certified fitness professionals) are randomized to HME or an identical-appearing placebo for 10 weeks: a 2-week supplement-only lead-in followed by 8 weeks of supplement plus supervised resistance training. The primary aim is to estimate the effect of HME on composite maximal strength (1-repetition maximum leg press plus chest press) compared with placebo. Secondary measures include isometric knee-extension strength, countermovement jump height, and subjective recovery.

"Muscle Strength, Balance, and Core Endurance in Elite Adolescent Rowers: A Cross-Sectional Study"

This study aims to investigate the relationship between lower extremity isokinetic strength, dynamic balance, and core muscle endurance in elite adolescent rowers aged 16-18. A total of 68 athletes (32 males, 36 females) will be assessed through standardized protocols involving isokinetic testing, the Y Balance Test, and McGill Core Endurance Tests. The study aims to contribute to performance monitoring and injury prevention strategies in rowing sports.

Resistance Training Adaptations and Caffeine Intake

This parallel-group, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigates the effects of three different caffeine supplementation strategies on resistance training-induced adaptations in 120 caffeine-naive, inactive young adult males. Participants will undergo a 10-week supervised resistance training program. The four supplementation strategies are: (1) constant daily low-moderate dosing (4 mg/kg/day), (2) gradually escalating dose (2 to 6 mg/kg across weeks), (3) training-day-only caffeine (4 mg/kg/day), and (4) placebo. Primary outcomes include maximal strength, body composition (lean body mass and fat mass), skeletal muscle thickness, and training volume progression. Secondary outcomes include muscular endurance, jump height, flight-time-to-contraction-time (FT:CT) ratio, mechanistic/biological variables (epinephrine, norepinephrine, cortisol, testosterone, creatine kinase, IGF-1), rate of perceived exertion, sleep/recovery parameters, and adverse effects.

The Acute and Accumulative Effects of Snack Foods on Exercise Recovery

The purpose of the research is two-fold. One goal is to determine if post-exercise almond or cereal bar consumption can promote muscle gain as well as increasing muscular strength throughout an eight-week weight training program. The other goal is to assess the short-term effects of almonds or cereal bar on recovery that may explain the overall long-term adaptations.

The Impact of Trunk and Lower Extremity Electrical Stimulation on Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength in Females

This study aims to investigate the effects of whole-body electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) applied to the trunk and lower extremity muscles on pelvic floor muscle strength in healthy women. Since pelvic floor muscles are deep-seated and can be difficult to activate voluntarily, this research explores whether stimulating related muscle groups (core and legs) can provide an indirect benefit to pelvic floor strength. Participants will be divided into three groups (EMS + exercise, Sham-EMS + exercise, and exercise only) and will undergo a 6-week intervention program. Changes in pelvic floor muscle strength will be evaluated using a perineometer to determine the effectiveness of this non-invasive approach.

Ultrasound Muscle Biomarkers as Predictors of Isometric Quadriceps Muscle Strength and Handgrip in Healthy Adults: an Observational Study

This observational study aims to determine whether ultrasound-derived muscle biomarkers can predict isometric quadriceps muscle strength and handgrip in healthy adults aged 18-89 years. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Which ultrasound muscle characteristics are associated with isometric quadriceps muscle strength and handgrip? * Can ultrasound-derived biomarkers be used to develop predictive models of muscle strength in healthy adults? Participants will undergo: * Ultrasound assessment of the quadriceps and forearm flexor muscles; * Measurement of isometric quadriceps muscle strength and handgrip using standardized dynamometry protocols; * Assessment of functional capacity, mobility and balance; * Completion of questionnaires related to health status, physical activity, nutrition, fatigue and health-related quality of life. The study will also assess the reliability of ultrasound measurements and explore the relationship between ultrasound variables, muscle strength, physical function and health-related factors.

Effects of Jive Dance Training on Lower Limb Muscle Strength

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of a structured, partner-free Jive dance training program on the physical and cognitive health of hospital employees. Healthcare workers often face high-stress environments, irregular shifts, and prolonged physical strain, which can lead to reduced muscle strength, poor body composition, and burnout. This study innovates by designing a solo Jive dance intervention to overcome traditional partnership limitations in workplace wellness programs. A single-group repeated measures design was used, recruiting 20 hospital employees for an 8-week study. The study was divided into Phase A (4 weeks of self-directed group practice) and Phase B (4 weeks of systematic Jive dance training). Comprehensive assessments were conducted at baseline, week 4, and week 8 to measure body composition, lower limb muscle strength, dynamic balance, working memory, and perceived stress.

Lower-Limb Muscle Mass and Cardiovascular and Muscular Performance in Males and Females

The aim of this study will be to examine the relationship between leg muscle mass and muscle strength, aerobic capacity, anaerobic power, and jumping performance in young adults. In addition, these physical performance measures will be compared between male and female participants. Recreationally active young adults will be recruited to participate in the study. Body weight and leg muscle mass will be assessed using a body composition analyzer. Participants will perform isokinetic and isometric leg strength tests, an aerobic fitness test (VO₂max), an anaerobic power test (Wingate), and a countermovement jump (CMJ) test. This study aims to improve the understanding of the effects of leg muscle mass on physical performance and to identify possible differences between males and females. The findings are expected to contribute to exercise prescription, performance assessment, and future research in sports and health sciences.

Reference Equations and Normative Data for Isometric Quadriceps and Handgrip Muscles STrength in Southern European Populations - RESTart: a Multicentre Study

This observational study aims to learn about peripheral muscle strength in healthy adults and people with chronic respiratory diseases. The study aims to develop reference data for quadriceps muscle strength and handgrip in adults living in Southern Europe and to assess whether these reference data can be used in people with chronic respiratory diseases. The main questions it aims to answer are: * What are the normal values for quadriceps and handgrip muscle strength in healthy adults aged 18-89 years living in Spain, Portugal and Italy? * Can the reference values developed in healthy adults be applied to people with chronic respiratory diseases? Participants will attend one study visit. During this visit, researchers will: * Measure quadriceps muscle strength and handgrip. * Collect information about age, sex, height, weight and other health characteristics. * Perform simple functional tests related to mobility and physical performance. * Ask participants to complete questionnaires about symptoms, physical activity and health-related quality of life.

Whey Protein and Adaptogenic Supplementation in Physically Active Females

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether whey protein or plant protein supplements, with or without an adaptogenic herb blend, can improve strength, recovery, stress, and wellbeing in active females. The adaptogenic blend contains ashwagandha root extract and shatavari root extract. The main questions the study aims to answer are: * Do whey protein and plant protein supplements improve muscle strength and recovery in physically active females? * Does adding ashwagandha and shatavari improve stress, recovery, sleep, and wellbeing compared with protein alone? * Are there differences between whey protein and plant protein when combined with the adaptogenic blend? Researchers will compare four supplement groups: * Whey protein * Whey protein with ashwagandha and shatavari * Plant protein * Plant protein with ashwagandha and shatavari Participants will: * Take their assigned supplement daily for 6 weeks * Attend testing sessions before and after the intervention * Complete questionnaires about recovery, sleep, stress, soreness, and digestive health * Provide saliva samples to measure stress, hormone, immune, and inflammation markers * Complete muscle strength tests, including handgrip strength and push-up testing * Complete a 24-hour dietary recall. The study includes physically active females aged 18 to 45 years who regularly participate in structured training.

Effect of Bupivacaine Liposome Injection on Muscle Strength After Total Knee Arthroplasty

This study employs a randomized controlled trial to investigate whether bupivacaine liposome injection for adductor canal block can effectively improve lower limb muscle strength after total knee arthroplasty.

Acute Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Hamstring-to-Quadriceps Strength Ratio

This study aimed to compare the acute effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and static stretching on hamstring-to-quadriceps (H/Q) strength ratios in healthy young men. A randomized crossover design was used in which participants completed both stretching protocols on separate days. Isokinetic muscle strength and H/Q ratios were assessed following each intervention. The findings provide insight into the immediate effects of different stretching modalities on muscle balance and performance.

Lower Limb Strength and Power as Predictors of Brain Blood Flow During Exercise

This study aims to investigate the predictive value of lower limb muscle strength and explosive power on exercise-induced prefrontal hemodynamic responses. Using an interpretable machine learning framework (GCAT-Net), the research analyzes how various physical performance indicators-such as isokinetic muscle strength, 1RM leg press, and vertical jump metrics-can predict oxygenated hemoglobin (ΔHbO) changes in the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) during moderate-intensity cycling.

Effects of Six-Week Accentuated Eccentric Load Training on Balance and Strength in Young Football Players

This study aims to investigate the effects of a structured training intervention on selected physical performance parameters in athletes. The primary objective is to determine whether the intervention leads to measurable improvements in performance outcomes such as balance, strength, sprint, change of direction, or jump performance. Participants will undergo baseline performance assessments before the intervention period. Following the baseline testing, participants will complete a supervised training program lasting several weeks. After the intervention, the same performance tests will be repeated under standardized conditions to evaluate changes in performance. All assessments will be conducted by trained researchers using validated measurement tools in a controlled training environment. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of the training intervention and contribute to the development of evidence-based training strategies for athletes.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Whole Body Vibration Therapy With Usual Care and Usual Care to Improve Muscle Health in Older Adults

This study is a randomized controlled trial where participants would be randomly assigned to one of 2 groups. One group would receive Whole body vibration therapy and usual care and the other group only usual care. Measurements of muscle mass, strength and function would be taken before the interventions, and at 2 other points after interventions. Differences in the outcomes between the two groups would be analysed.

Use of Exercise Snacks to Improve Upper Body Fitness

This study will examine the effects of an upper-body resistance "exercise snack" (ES) protocol on upper-body strength, endurance, and power. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: a submaximal effort repeated throughout the exercise day ES group, a maximal effort performed once per exercise day ES group, and a control group that continues usual activity (Control: no resistance exercise). Both exercise groups will perform two exercises, push-ups and planks, three days per week. The submaximal repeated effort ES group (SMR\_ES) will perform approximately 33% of the maximal number of push-ups and maintain a plank position for 33% of maximal time, three times per day. The maximal once-per-day effort ES group (MO\_ES) will perform the maximal number of push-ups and maintain a plank position for maximal time, once per day. Therefore, both ES groups (SMR\_ES and MO\_ES) will perform the same weekly volume (repetitions and time) of both exercises across the six-week intervention period. Before and after the six-week intervention period, all participants will undergo testing to assess upper-body performance. Outcome measures will include push-up endurance (maximum repetitions), plank endurance (maximum time), push-up power (assessed using force plates), and maximal push strength (assessed using hand-held dynamometry). Pre- and post-intervention changes in outcomes will be compared among all three groups. If significant changes are identified, additional comparisons will be conducted between the SMR\_ES and Control groups, as well as between the SMR\_ES and MO\_ES groups. The primary aim of this study is to determine whether repeated submaximal efforts performed three times per day, three days per week, increase upper-body endurance, power, and strength compared to a control group performing no resistance exercise. The secondary aim is to determine whether submaximal efforts performed three times per day, three days per week, produce changes in upper-body strength, endurance, and power that are not different from maximal efforts performed once per day, three days per week. These aims address whether exercise distribution influences strength and power adaptations beyond total weekly volume. The findings may help inform time-efficient, lower subjective-effort resistance training strategies that can be implemented in educational, athletic, or general fitness settings.

Combined Effects of Swiss Ball Exercises and Diaphragmatic Breathing in Pregnant Females

30 to 60 percent of the pregnant females experience stress urinary incontinence depending on various factors like trimester, parity and body weight. Stress urinary incontinence is a common yet often underreported condition affecting pregnant women, characterized by involuntary leakage of urine during physical activities such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising. Stress urinary incontinence majorly occurs due to increased intra-abdominal pressure and weakened pelvic floor muscles which are further strained during pregnancy. Despite its impact on quality of life, awareness and management remains inadequate. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles plays a critical role in managing stress urinary incontinence and Swiss ball exercises have emerged as an effective and low impact method to improve core stability and pelvic floor muscle strength. These exercises engage deep abdominal and pelvic muscles in a functional and dynamic way, potentially enhancing both physical and psychological well-being during pregnancy. . The study will be conducted as a randomized control trial involving females with stress urinary incontinence in Zia Hospital Lahore and Ittefaq Hospital Lahore. The study will be completed within 10 months of synopsis approval. A non-probability sampling technique will be employed and 42 patients will be enrolled after randomization. Participants will be divided into two groups. Group A will undergo a structured program involving Swiss ball exercises combined with diaphragmatic breathing. Group B will receive Swiss ball exercises without diaphragmatic breathing. Kegel exercises will be considered the baseline treatment. Outcome measures will include syptoms of stress urinary incontinence (using International Consultation Incontinence Questionnaire), pelvic floor muscle strength (assessed through standardized tools i.e. Modified Oxford Scale) and self-reported quality of life (using validated questionnaires i.e. King's Health Questionnaire). The data collected will be analyzed using IBM SPSS statistics version 25.

Dose-Response Impact of Geranylgeraniol (GG) Supplementation on Muscle Health

This study will evaluate the effects of daily geranylgeraniol (GG) supplementation on muscular strength, body composition, and aerobic capacity in healthy, physically active men and women. Approximately 60 participants aged 30-60 years will be enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial lasting 8 weeks. Participants will be assigned to receive either placebo, 150 mg GG, or 300 mg GG daily. Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline, week 4, and week 8 and include maximal strength (1RM bench press and leg press), fat-free mass, muscular endurance, aerobic capacity (VO2peak), and circulating biomarkers related to metabolism and health.

Different Drop Height Plyometric Training in Soccer Players

This randomized controlled trial aims to determine the effects of different drop height plyometric training protocols on lower limb explosive strength, anaerobic power, and change of direction (COD) performance in soccer players. A total of 56 competitive soccer players aged 18-30 years will be randomly allocated into three intervention groups using sealed envelope randomization: low drop height (30 cm), moderate drop height (45 cm), and high drop height (60 cm) plyometric training groups. Participants will undergo supervised plyometric training three times per week for six weeks. Outcome measures including Vertical Jump Test, Running-Based Anaerobic Sprint Test (RAST), and T-Test Agility Test will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS version 25 to determine within-group and between-group differences.

EMS Combined With Resistance Training in Weight Lifters

The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to determine the effects of Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) combined with resistance training on muscle mass, muscular strength, body composition, and power in trained weightlifters. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups: one receiving resistance training alone and the other receiving EMS combined with resistance training. The intervention will be conducted for eight weeks, and outcome measures will be assessed at baseline, mid-intervention (4 weeks), and post-intervention (8 weeks). The findings of this study may provide evidence regarding the additional benefits of EMS when combined with conventional resistance training programs in enhancing muscular performance among trained athletes.

L-serine and Strength Training in the Elderly

This study investigates whether taking the amino acid L-serine, either alone or in combination with targeted strength training, can have a positive effect on mental performance, brain function, and physical fitness in older people. Healthy, independent women and men aged 65 to 85 are eligible to participate. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: placebo, L-serine, or L-serine combined with strength training. Cognitive tests, physical performance tests, and blood and brain tests will be conducted over a period of 48 weeks. The aim is to gain a better understanding of how nutrition and exercise can contribute to healthy aging.

Menstrual Cycle and Women's Performance

This study examines how different phases of the menstrual cycle are associated with selected performance and musculoskeletal parameters in physically active women aged 18-35 years. Participants will track their menstrual cycle using a mobile app for approximately 2 months and attend 3 laboratory visits scheduled to specific cycle phases. At each visit, participants will complete non-invasive assessments including lower-limb strength/performance testing, musculoskeletal measurements (muscle and tendon properties), body composition assessment, and symptom-related questionnaires. The goal is to improve understanding of physiological variability across the menstrual cycle and support evidence-based planning of training, testing, and clinical practice in women.

Impact of Digital Muscle Strength on Activity in Tech-Addicted University Students

Results from muscle strength assessment methods commonly used in physiotherapy can vary due to their lack of objective results and their reliance on the individual's muscle strength. Digital muscle testing devices provide objective results because they provide numerical data based on the resistance applied by the individual performing the measurement. These data can objectively identify weakness in specific muscles or muscle groups that may occur due to decreased physical activity levels in university students, and they will also be useful in developing an individualized exercise program.

Applicability of Tissue Flossing for Blood Flow Restriction in the Upper Limb: Reliability and Performance Analysis

Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a widely studied technique that combines low-intensity exercise with vascular occlusion, resulting in muscular benefits. However, its application is challenging due to methodological variations and equipment costs. Tissue Flossing (TF) appears as an affordable alternative, but lacks solid scientific evidence.