Comparing Effects of Caffeine and Total Motion Release Technique on Cognitive, Neuromuscular, and Anaerobic Function in Semi-Professional Male Sprinters: A Randomized Controlled Trial Publisher Pubmed



Safapour P¹ ; Malmir K¹ ; Ashnagar Z¹ ; Fereydounnia S¹ ; Djafarian K² ; Ahmadi M³ Show Affiliations
Source: Physiotherapy Research International Published:2025

Abstract

Background and Purpose: As sprinting gains popularity, enhancing anaerobic capacity, neuromuscular function, and cognitive performance is crucial. This study evaluated the effects of Total Motion Release (TMR) and caffeine on these functions in male sprinters to optimize performance strategies. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 56 male sprinters were randomly assigned to control, caffeine, TMR, or caffeine plus TMR groups. The Stroop test, Eriksen flanker task, FMS, and Wingate test were used pre- and post-intervention, with effects analyzed via within- and between-group comparisons. Results: Flanker congruent and incongruent reaction times significantly decreased with caffeine, TMR, or the combination of both (p < 0.05), with caffeine showing the greatest effect on congruent reaction times (p < 0.05). All groups except the control improved their FMS scores, but no group was significantly superior. Peak, average, and relative peak power increased in all groups except the caffeine group (p > 0.05), with no group outperforming the others. Heart rate showed a slight increase in the group receiving both caffeine and TMR (p < 0.05). Discussion: Caffeine increases cognitive function, while TMR boosts accuracy, power, and neuromuscular function. Combined, they improve cognitive performance and reduce reaction times. TMR improves anaerobic capacity; caffeine has minimal impact. Caffeine may be better for those without sensitivity, while TMR can support neuromuscular readiness, power, and accuracy. TMR is recommended, especially for high-acceleration sports. Trial Registration: The study was registered with the IRCT committee (No: IRCT20230708058720N1, March 13, 2024). © 2025 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.