Improving shoulder motion and strength in CrossFit athletes using the sleeper stretch

The Effects of a Sleeper Stretch Intervention on Measures of Performance and Pain in CrossFit Participants: A Randomized Trial

NA · Mayo Clinic · NCT06720155

This study is testing if a specific shoulder stretch can help CrossFit athletes improve their shoulder movement, strength, and overall performance.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment26 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 55 Years
SexAll
SponsorMayo Clinic (other)
Locations2 sites (La Crosse, Wisconsin and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06720155 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the sleeper stretch in enhancing shoulder range of motion, strength, and overall upper body performance among CrossFit participants. The intervention involves comparing the sleeper stretch against a standard workout regimen to determine its impact on shoulder pain and functionality. Participants must be regularly active in CrossFit, attending classes more than twice a week, and will be monitored for improvements in their shoulder capabilities.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are active CrossFit participants who attend classes regularly and do not have significant shoulder injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with positive tests for labral lesions, rotator cuff tears, or recent upper limb injuries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide CrossFit athletes with a new method to alleviate shoulder pain and improve performance.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using the sleeper stretch in this context may be novel, similar interventions targeting shoulder mobility in athletic populations have shown promise in other studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

• Regularly active (attending CrossFit \> 2x per week)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Positive test for labral lesions or rotator cuff tears
* History of recent fracture
* Orthopedic surgery in the upper limbs or cervical region
* Any other current injury that would prevent participation in regular work-shift activities

Where this trial is running

La Crosse, Wisconsin and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Shoulder Pain, CrossFit, Sleeper stretch

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.