The effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching exercises on balance circulatory parameters and motoric adaptations in futsal players

Abstract

Background. To improve performance, athletes should try different methods. This is why the popularized proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) exercises are essential. Objectives. This study investigated the effects of 6-week PNF stretching exercises on futsal players’ balance, circulatory parameters, and motoric adaptations. Methods. A total of 36 volunteer futsal players aged 14–17 years who regularly participated in futsal training and did not have any chronic diseases were included in the study. Futsal players were randomly divided into three groups: PNF group (n=12), training group (n=12), and control group (n=12). The PNF group received a PNF stretching exercise program three days a week for six weeks in combination with futsal training. The training group only continued futsal training regularly. No training program was applied to the control group. Age, height, weight, pulse rate, blood pressure, saturation, balance, push-ups, sit-ups, vertical jumps, horizontal jumps, sit-stand flexibility test, and 30-meter sprint test were measured in all groups. Results. According to the findings obtained from the study, there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in favor of the experimental groups in systolic blood pressure (p=0.017), push-ups (p<0.001), sit-ups (p<0.001), vertical and horizontal jump (p<0.001) and 30-meter sprint test (p<0.001) in PNF and training groups. While there was no statistical significance between the pre-test and post-test measurements of circulatory parameters in the PNF group, significance was found in favor of the PNF group in the intergroup comparison. Conclusion. When measured parameters are evaluated, we can say that PNF exercises applied to futsal players may have positive effects. © (2024), (Asian Exercise and Sport Science Association). All rights reserved.