Acute Effects of Bilateral Versus Unilateral Isometric Conditioning Activity on Jump Performance in Volleyball Players

This randomized crossover trial investigates the acute effects of bilateral and unilateral isometric conditioning activity on bilateral and unilateral jump performance in highly trained male volleyball players. Fourteen athletes will complete three experimental conditions in randomized order: bilateral isometric squat conditioning activity (BI), unilateral isometric squat conditioning activity (UNI), and a control condition consisting of low-intensity treadmill walking (CTRL). In both isometric conditions, participants will perform three sets of three maximal 3-second contractions, with 3-minute recovery intervals between sets. Jump performance will be assessed before each experimental condition and at 4, 8, and 12 minutes afterward using bilateral countermovement jumps and single-leg jumps performed separately with each lower limb. The primary aim of the study is to determine whether the mode of isometric conditioning activity, unilateral versus bilateral, influences the magnitude and time course of acute changes in jump performance. An additional objective is to assess whether the effects of the conditioning activity differ between bilateral and unilateral jumping tasks.