Effect of accentuated eccentric loading countermovement jumps and drop jump training with ladder training versus ladder training alone on sprint performance and change of direction ability in futsal players: A randomized controlled trial protocol.

The study is designed as a 6-week parallel, single-blinded randomized controlled trial with outcome assessors blinded to group allocation.

• Trial registration number: CTRI/2025/04/085611
• Participants will train 3 times per week for 6 weeks
• Outcome assessors will be blinded to group allocation
• Primary analysis will follow the intention-to-treat principle

The trial will enroll 62 recreational and competitive futsal players aged 18-30 years.

• Participants will be recruited from futsal turfs across Sawangi Meghe, Wardha
• Participants will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to one of two groups
• Age range of participants is 18-30 years
• Both recreational and competitive futsal players are eligible

Participants will be randomized to receive either AEL countermovement jumps, drop jumps, and ladder training combined, or ladder training alone.

• The experimental group will receive accentuated eccentric loading (AEL) countermovement jumps (CMJ), drop jumps (DJ), and ladder training
• The control group will receive ladder training alone
• Both groups will train 3 times per week
• The intervention duration is 6 weeks

The primary outcomes are between-group differences in sprint performance and change of direction ability from baseline to post-intervention at week 6.

• Sprint performance will be assessed using the 30-meter Sprint Test
• Change of direction ability will be assessed using the Agility T-Test
• Measurements will be taken at baseline and post-intervention (week 6)
• Linear mixed-effects models with participant-level random intercepts will be used for primary analysis

Futsal is characterized as a fast-paced, high-intensity 5-a-side sport that demands rapid sprints and frequent changes of direction critical for match performance.

• Ladder training is described as known to enhance agility and coordination
• Accentuated eccentric loading (AEL), countermovement jumps (CMJ), and drop jumps (DJ) are described as increasing lower body power
• The combined effects of these exercises on futsal-specific results are described as unclear, motivating the trial
• The paper is a protocol report, meaning no outcome data are yet presented