Scapular stabilization exercises to improve shooting in traditional archers

The Effects of Scapular Stabilization Exercises on Shooting Accuracy and Upper Extremity Performance in Traditional Archery Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

NA · Karabuk University · NCT07002008

This 8-week program tests whether adding scapular stabilization exercises to regular training improves shooting accuracy and shoulder strength in licensed traditional archers aged 15 to 35.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorKarabuk University (other)
Locations1 site (Bursa, Osmangazi̇)
Trial IDNCT07002008 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This double-blind randomized controlled trial will enroll 30 licensed traditional archers aged 15–35 and stratify participants by age and gender before random assignment to an intervention or control group. The intervention group performs a standardized, progressively loaded 8-week scapular stabilization program targeting the serratus anterior and lower trapezius alongside usual training, while the control group continues regular training alone. Blinded evaluators will perform pre- and post-intervention assessments of upper-extremity strength, endurance, proprioception, and shooting accuracy using validated tests. Outcomes will compare between groups to determine whether the exercise program produces measurable improvements in performance and shoulder function.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Licensed traditional archers aged 15–35 with at least two years of experience who train regularly, can attend in-person sessions, and provide informed consent are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Those with upper-extremity orthopedic surgery within the past year, current musculoskeletal or neurological disorders, or who fall outside the age/experience criteria are unlikely to receive benefit from this protocol.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the program could improve shooting accuracy and shoulder stability and reduce the risk of overuse shoulder injuries in archers.

How similar studies have performed: Scapular stabilization programs have shown improved shoulder function and reduced symptoms in other overhead athletes, but direct evidence specifically in traditional archery is limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 15 to 35 years

Licensed traditional archers with at least 2 years of experience

Regular participation in training programs

Willingness to participate and provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of upper extremity orthopedic surgery in the past year

Existing musculoskeletal disorders in the upper extremity

Presence of any neurological disease

Where this trial is running

Bursa, Osmangazi̇

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: Athletes, Exercise, Archery, traditional archery, scapular stabilization, shooting performance, strength, balance

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.