Study Overview:

• Publication Date: April 2022
• Research Timeline: Conducted after the COVID-19 lockdown in Serbia (2020).

This study evaluated the effects of an 8-week neuromuscular training (NT) program on the quality of life (QoL) of healthy young participants following the COVID-19 lockdown.

Purpose of the Study:

The researchers sought to address the negative physical and psychological impacts of COVID-19 lockdowns, such as reduced physical activity and diminished quality of life. They hypothesized that NT could mitigate these effects and enhance multiple QoL dimensions, including physical, psychological, social, and environmental well-being.

Participant Details:

• Population Studied: 90 healthy young adults (45 males, 45 females) aged 23.94 ± 1.9 years.
• Inclusion Criteria: Physically healthy individuals without musculoskeletal or neurological disorders.
• Exclusion Criteria: Regular physical activity during lockdown, substance use, or medical conditions affecting balance.
• Group Assignment: Randomized into NT group (n = 47) and control group (n = 43).

Intervention and Methods:

• Training Program:
  • 3 sessions per week for 8 weeks.
  • Combined dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) exercises with whole-body vibration training (WBVT).
  • Focus on postural stability, balance, and core strength, progressively increasing intensity over time.
  • Supervised by professional coaches and researchers.
  • Control Group: Did not participate in any structured exercise during the intervention period.
• Quality of Life Assessment: QoL was evaluated using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire, measuring four domains:
  • Physical health
  • Psychological health
  • Social relationships
  • Environmental factors

Key Findings:

• NT Group Improvements:
  • Physical health: Increased by 12.78 points.
  • Psychological health: Increased by 13.12 points.
  • Social relationships: Increased by 20.57 points.
  • Environmental factors: Increased by 24.40 points.
  • Control Group: No significant changes except a decline in social relationships QoL scores.

Implications and Importance:

The results demonstrate that NT can significantly enhance quality of life across multiple dimensions, even after a prolonged period of physical inactivity such as a lockdown. By addressing both physical and psychological well-being, NT offers a comprehensive strategy for health recovery and resilience.

Takeaway Message:

This study highlights the potential of neuromuscular training as a valuable intervention for improving physical and mental well-being in young, healthy individuals. The program’s ability to enhance social and environmental QoL dimensions further underscores its holistic benefits.

Reference for Further Reading:

Marinkovic, D., Macak, D., Madic, D. M., Sporis, G., Kuvacic, D., Jasic, D., et al. (2022). Effect of Neuromuscular Training Program on Quality of Life After COVID-19 Lockdown Among Young Healthy Participants: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 844678. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.844678