Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

8-1-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Exercise Science

First Advisor

Samuel Buchanan

Second Advisor

Murat Karabulut

Third Advisor

Ulku Karabulut

Abstract

Elite athletes engage in intense training to secure marginal performance advantages, placing considerable physical strain on their bodies. Effective recovery techniques are critical to rapidly restore physical function. Conventional methods like ice baths, hydrotherapy, and massages are often impractical due to cost and logistical barriers. This study examined the efficacy of voluntary deep slow breathing (VDSB) as a cost-effective recovery method compared to static stretching (SS) and no recovery method (control) in untrained male athletes aged 18–26. Using a within-subjects, randomized crossover design over four weeks, participants visited the lab seven times to complete a standardized full-body workout involving plyometric and resistance exercises. Recovery interventions were applied post-exercise, and their impact was evaluated on lower body power (vertical jump and broad jump), visual reaction time (VRT), and handgrip strength. Assessments were conducted pre-exercise, immediately post-exercise, and 12–24 hours post-exercise to gauge recovery effectiveness. The hypothesis suggested that VDSB would enhance recovery by promoting parasympathetic dominance, resulting in superior performance in reaction time, grip strength, and jump metrics compared to SS and control conditions. Static stretching was anticipated to outperform the control but be less effective than VDSB. Participants were screened to exclude those with hypertension, recent lower extremity injuries, or conditions that contraindicated exercise. Body composition was measured using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA), and hydration status was verified to ensure accurate data. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA analyzed the effects of recovery modality and time, with Pearson’s R used to explore correlations between body composition and performance outcomes. The only significant changes were across time; however, there were no significant changes between conditions. VDSB and SS did not effectively accelerate recovery after 12-24 hours following resistance exercise in terms of lower body power, hand grip strength, and reaction time.

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Copyright 2025 Isaac Daniel Huerta. All Rights Reserved. https://proquest.com/docview/3292544604

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