Sensorimotor and neuromuscular training to improve ice hockey performance
Sensorimotor Training to Enhance Performance - the STEP AHEAD Program
This project will test whether adding focused sensorimotor and neuromuscular training to off-season programs helps ice hockey players improve on-ice skills, sensorimotor test scores, and reduce injuries including concussions.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 12 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Calgary, Alberta) |
| Trial ID | NCT07402746 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Participants complete baseline sensorimotor and neuromuscular (SM/NM) tests, follow their usual training for four weeks, and repeat the tests. They then do a four-week SM/NM training program as part of off-season training, with repeat SM/NM and on-ice skills testing afterward. Investigators will record injuries and concussions over the following season and repeat testing at the start of the 2025 off-season. The study will compare scores by age and sex to describe typical development and determine whether targeted SM/NM training changes performance and injury outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ice hockey players in the Calgary area who are training with Crash Conditioning during the 2024–2026 off-season are eligible.
Not a fit: Players who are not local, not training with Crash Conditioning, or who cannot complete the testing and training schedule are unlikely to receive benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could improve balance, reaction and sport-specific skills and possibly lower the risk of injuries and concussions for participating players.
How similar studies have performed: Some rehabilitation exercises have improved sensorimotor control in other groups, but applying structured SM/NM training to ice hockey performance and concussion prevention is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:Ice hockey players in Calgary and area who are training with Crash Conditioning for the 2024-2026 off season - Exclusion Criteria: N/A \-
Where this trial is running
Calgary, Alberta
- Concussion Rehabilitation Laboratory — Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Kathryn Schneider, PT, PhD
- Email: kjschnei@ucalgary.ca
- Phone: 4033892245
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.